Knowing Your Way Around a Contract
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Moving House: Residential Rental Contracts
For some, contracts can be the most daunting part of the moving process but don't be afraid.
This guide will get you through it (hopefully!). Residential rental contracts are generally
straightforward but there are a few items to look out for to protect both the tenant and the
landlord.
Contracts are overlooked by tenants when moving into a new property. If your landlord or
letting agent has rented properties before, they should know to draft a contract before you
move in. However, if a contract has not been drafted up before your move in date, contact
them and ask them to view the document before you sign.
1. The Name of the Parties
As with any contract, the names of all persons involved should be stated clearly on the
contract. Naming individuals on a contract identifies tenants and the landlord and holds
each party responsible. The roles of each party should also be specified i.e Mr. John Smith
(Landlord) and Mr. John Lennon (Tennant). Include the addresses of both parties. In the case
of the tenant, state the rental property address. This should only be used if the tenant will be
using the rental property as their primary address. If not, their primary address should be
used.
2. Property Description
This may seem like a no brainer but the property itself should be described in the contract.
This should include the full address. It should also include a brief description of the property
i.e. 2 bed apartment with 1 bathroom located at Main Street Apartments, Blue Street, Dublin
24, for example.
3. Term of Lease
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If you have been in constant contact with a landlord or a management company, the
parameters of the lease will have already been discussed i.e. 1 year lease with a view to
extension. Clearly state this in the contract. It should include the duration length of the
contact i.e. 1 year and the commencement and conclusion date i.e. 1st January 2018 and 31st
December 2018.
4. Amount of Rent Due
If you have found the property yourself, you probably already know how much the rent is
going to be and also what is included in the price. This part of the contact should be fairly
straight forward stating the amount of rent due per month and the date the payment is due.
It should also state the amount due to be paid for a deposit and the date that the deposit is
due. Generally speaking the deposit is due once the contract is signed. If so, this should be
stipulated in the contract.
This part of the contract should also state consequences for late payments, the definition for
late payments i.e. an additional €50.00 will be charged for late payment.
5. Acknowledgement of Contract
At the end of the contract, there should be a space where all parties can sign and date the
contract. Without this, the contract is deemed invalid and will not protect any parties
involved in the renting of the property.
I hope this guide helps even a little bit. For more, check our m
oving house section. If there is
anything you would like to add, why not comment.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website, and any outside information linked to,
is for guidance only. It is not legal advice. Please consult your own legal counsel for advice
specific to your situation.
Photo Credit: Cytonn Photography
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