The value of a good lease agreement

As a landlord, renting out your property can be an excellent source of income, but it also comes with a degree of risk. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to have a proper lease agreement in place to protect yourself and your property.

What is a lease agreement?

A lease agreement is a legally binding contract between a landlord and a tenant that outlines the terms and conditions of the rental arrangement. A well-drafted lease agreement should cover all aspects of the tenancy, including rent, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and tenant obligations. It should also provide a framework for resolving disputes and terminating the tenancy.

Why does a landlord need a watertight lease agreement?

Having a proper lease agreement is essential for landlords for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to establish a clear understanding between the landlord and the tenant about their respective rights and obligations. This can help to prevent misunderstandings or disputes that may arise during the tenancy.

Secondly, a lease agreement can protect the landlord's property by setting out guidelines for maintenance and repairs. This can help to ensure that the property is maintained in good condition and that any damages caused by the tenant are addressed promptly.

Thirdly, a lease agreement can provide a framework for resolving disputes that may arise during the tenancy. This can help to minimise the risk of costly and time-consuming legal proceedings.

Fourthly, a lease agreement can help to protect the landlord's financial interests by specifying the terms of rent payments, late fees, and security deposits. This can help to ensure that the landlord receives the rent on time and is adequately compensated for any damages or unpaid rent.

A sound lease agreement is essential

In summary, a well-drafted lease agreement is essential for landlords to protect themselves and their property. It provides a clear understanding of the terms and conditions of the arrangement, establishes guidelines for maintenance and repairs, provides a framework for resolving disputes, and protects the landlord's financial interests.

Speak to a legal expert

As a landlord, it is important to seek the advice of a legal professional to ensure that your lease agreement complies with all relevant laws and regulations, and is tailored to your specific circumstances.

Our attorneys have considerable legal experience with all matters related to tenants, landlords, lease agreements and dispute resolution. Please contact our Conveyancing and Property Law or Litigation and Dispute Resolution team to assist with your issue.

Author* Abrahams & Gross's Litigation and Dispute Resolution attorney, Henno Bothma

READ: Landlords: A guide to finding the ideal rental candidates

Additional information: 

According to the Department of Human Settlements, a Rental Housing Tribunal has the authority to deal with disputes, complaints or problems between tenants and landlords in the rental housing dwellings:

- Non-payment of rentals
- Failure to refund the deposit
- Invasion of tenant's privacy, including family members and visitors
- Unlawful seizure of tenant's goods
- Discrimination by landlord against prospective tenants
- The changing of locks
- Lack of maintenance and repairs
- Illegal evictions
- Illegal lockout or illegal disconnection of services
- Damage to property
- Demolition and conversion
- Forced entry
- House rules
- Intimidation
- Issuing of receipts
- Municipal services
- Nuisance
- Overcrowding and health matters

In terms of section 13(13) of the Rental Housing Act 50 of 1999, a ruling of the Tribunal is deemed to be an order of a Magistrate's Court in terms of the Magistrate's Court Act, 1994.

* Disclaimer: The articles on these web pages are provided for general information purposes only. Whilst care has been taken to ensure accuracy, the content provided is not intended to stand alone as legal advice. Always consult a suitably qualified attorney on any specific legal problem or matter.

*Article updated 18 March 2024

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