All states have uniform requirements mandated by Federal law for Lease/Rental Agreements. Such required disclosures include:
- the identities of both tenant and landlord,
- a detailed description of the premises being leased,
- pet prohibitions or allowances,
- information on health and safety hazards,
- rent and security deposit specifics.
States will likely differ on some important leasing and rental issues.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific nuances and requirements of North Carolina law to best protect your financial and legal interests. By doing so, your lease agreement will be much more comprehensive and save potential hassle and legal trouble in the future.
1. North Carolina Residential Lease Agreement Sample
The sample lease agreement below describes a contract between “Landlord” Alan Timlin and “Tenant” Lillie Yaeger. She agrees to rent a semi-detached house in Charleston for $1,200 per month on a month-by-month basis. The tenant agrees to pay for all utilities and services for the Premises.
This is a good example of what provisions a simple lease agreement might contain, and how one should look in its final form.
2. North Carolina Landlord and Tenant Laws
North Carolina imposes specific and distinct requirements for landlords and tenants when executing a Lease/Rental Agreement. For example, the state statute provides for the following:
Security Deposit:
- A landlord may request no greater than two weeks’ rent in security deposit for a week-to-week tenancy, one and one-half months’ rent for a month-to-month tenancy, and two months’ rent. (NCGS § 42-51)
- A landlord must return the security deposit to the tenant within thirty (30) days of the end or termination of the lease. (NCGS § 42-52)
Landlord Right of Entry:
- There is no notice requirement for a landlord before entering the tenanted property, however, it’s always highly recommended they give such notice. (No statute)