Contract Template Guide: Simple Rental & Lease Agreements

If you need a contract but don’t want to spend hours drafting one, a ready‑made template can save the day. Whether you’re a landlord renting out a flat in Mumbai or a homeowner sharing a guest house, the right template lets you cover the basics, stay legal, and avoid misunderstandings.

Why Use a Contract Template?

Templates give you a proven structure. They include the clauses most courts look for: rent amount, payment date, security deposit, notice period, and maintenance duties. Using a template means you won’t forget a important term, and you can customize the wording to match your situation. It also speeds up the signing process because both parties know what to expect.

Quick Steps to Create Your Own Contract

1. Pick the right type. For a short‑term stay, a month‑to‑month contract works best. For a year‑long rental, use a standard lease template. If you’re sharing a co‑living space, look for a roommate agreement.

2. Fill in the basics. List the full names of landlord and tenant, property address, start date, and rent amount. Include how rent should be paid – bank transfer, cheque, or online portal.

3. Add security deposit details. State the amount, when it will be returned, and any conditions that could cause deductions. Clear deposit rules keep disputes to a minimum.

4. Define notice periods. Most Indian rentals require a 30‑day notice to end a month‑to‑month tenancy. For a yearly lease, a 60‑day notice is common. Write the exact number of days and how notice must be given (email, registered letter, etc.).

5. Cover maintenance and utilities. Who pays for electricity, water, and repairs? Spell it out so there’s no guesswork later.

6. Include a dispute‑resolution clause. Mention that any disagreements will first be discussed amicably, then possibly go to mediation before court.

7. Review and sign. Read the final draft with the other party, ask a lawyer if anything feels unclear, and then each sign and date the document. Keep a digital copy for backup.

Here’s a short excerpt from a typical month‑to‑month contract template:

"The Tenant shall pay Rs. 25,000 per month on or before the 5th day of each month. The Landlord may increase rent by up to 5% after giving a 30‑day written notice."

Feel free to adjust the numbers, notice period, or rent‑increase cap to suit your local market. The key is to keep the language simple and the obligations clear.

When you’re ready, search for "contract template" plus your specific need – e.g., "month‑to‑month contract template" – and download a free Word or PDF file. Most sites let you edit the placeholders directly, so you can replace generic names with yours in seconds.

Remember, a well‑written contract protects both landlord and tenant. It sets expectations, reduces friction, and gives you confidence that the rental relationship will run smoothly. Start with a solid template, tweak it to match your terms, and you’ll have a binding agreement without the legal headache.