Lease Agreements
Clear lease agreements are the foundation of successful landlord-tenant relationships and smart property management for residential and commercial properties.
Attorney Review & Drafted Leases
Landlords and Commercial Tenants
Residential and Commercial Leases
Both commercial and residential landlords face significant challenges when tenants fail to pay rent. The most effective way to protect a landlord’s rights from the start is with a clearly written lease agreement. Our attorneys help landlords draft tailored commercial leases for specific deals, or create standardized residential lease forms that can be reused across multiple properties.
In Missouri and many other states, real estate law places strong emphasis on written contracts and generally does not uphold verbal agreements beyond one month. To ensure your lease is legally enforceable, especially for longer rental periods, it is important to have a clear written agreement that outlines the responsibilities and expectations of both parties.
Hire an attorney to protect your leasehold interest.
Leases and Landlord Issues
Rental Agreements
Landlords can save time, reduce risk, and improve their rental operations by working with an attorney to prepare the proper documents in advance. Setting up these documents early creates a strong foundation that supports smoother management of rental properties.
Commercial leases are often lengthy, detailed, and legally complicated, making it crucial for landlords to use clear and accurate language to prevent future disputes. Tenants can also benefit from legal guidance to review the lease, catch hidden risks, and ensure the terms support their business goals.
Create a lease agreement for your residential rental property to prevent misunderstandings and ensure legal compliance from the start.
Set up a standard lease allowing a portion or the full amount of rent to apply toward a future purchase through an option-to-purchase agreement.
Lease Agreements
Have an attorney prepare your lease agreement.
With the help of an attorney, residential landlords and both parties in a commercial lease can navigate the leasing process with greater confidence and clarity.
Residential Tenant Security Deposits
Understanding Security Deposits in Missouri
In Missouri, landlords cannot collect more than two months’ rent as a security deposit for residential property. If both a security deposit and last month’s rent are collected, the deposit itself must be no more than one month’s rent, since advance rent counts toward the deposit limit. Pet deposits are allowed in addition to this amount, but the residential lease must clearly state their purpose.
After the lease ends, landlords have 30 days to inspect the property and either return the deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions. If damages exceed the deposit, the landlord may take legal action to recover the remaining costs.
Our attorneys can prepare a proper residential lease to protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lease Agreements
A written lease helps avoid misunderstandings, protects rights, and provides enforceable terms for rent, maintenance, repairs, and property rules.
You should have an attorney review the lease if it contains unusual terms, long durations, or for any lease including purchase option. By involving an attorney, you can help prevent costly issues later.
Residential leases are for housing and follow stricter landlord-tenant laws. Commercial leases are for business use and can be more complex, requiring negotiation of detailed terms.
Commercial leases often involve significant financial commitments and long terms. An attorney ensures clauses on rent, maintenance, renewal, and liability are balanced and legally enforceable.
Based in Springfield, Missouri, our legal services extend across Missouri from the bustling streets of St. Louis and Independence to the scenic areas of Rolla, Rogersville, Poplar Bluff, Sedalia, West Plains, and Fort Leonard Wood.
Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation
We assist with your residential and commercial landlord-tenant agreements. Let our attorneys assist with preparing or reviewing your lease agreement.
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