Why Your Lease Matters
A lease isn't just paperwork—it's the legal foundation of your landlord-tenant relationship. A good lease protects you from problem tenants, clearly defines responsibilities, and gives you recourse if something goes wrong.
But landlord-tenant laws vary wildly by location. What's perfectly legal in Texas might be illegal in Ontario. RentMouse automatically loads the right template for your jurisdiction.
Starting a New Lease
Go to Leases in the sidebar and click "Create Lease". Select the property and unit you're leasing. You'll see a note confirming which jurisdiction's laws apply.
The Lease Wizard
Step 1: Tenant Information
Enter each tenant's full legal name and email address. All named tenants are jointly and severally liable—meaning each is responsible for the full rent.
Step 2: Lease Term
- Fixed Term: A set period (typically 12 months).
- Month-to-Month: Continues until either party gives notice.
Step 3: Rent Details
- Monthly Rent: The base rent amount.
- Due Date: When rent is due each month.
- Late Fee: RentMouse warns you if your fee exceeds local limits.
- Payment Methods: Online, cheque, e-transfer, etc.
Step 4: Security Deposit
Many jurisdictions cap deposits at one month's rent. RentMouse enforces local limits automatically. Ontario landlords: you can only collect a last month's rent deposit, not a damage deposit.
Step 5: Utilities & Rules
Check boxes for who pays what utilities. Toggle standard clauses for smoking, pets, parking, and quiet hours.
Review and Sign
Preview the PDF, then click "Send for Signature". The tenant signs digitally, then you sign. Everyone receives a final PDF automatically.
Note: While we keep templates current with local laws, we recommend having a legal professional review your lease for complex situations.