Small Lease Agreement Template for India

The Small Lease Agreement is a fundamental legal document used in India for leasing residential properties and small commercial spaces. It is particularly useful for individual landlords, small property owners, and businesses requiring a straightforward yet comprehensive lease arrangement. This document type is designed to comply with the Transfer of Property Act, 1882, the Registration Act, 1908, and various state-specific rent control laws in India. The agreement typically covers lease periods up to 11 months (to avoid mandatory registration requirements) and includes essential terms regarding rent, deposits, maintenance, and utilities. The Small Lease Agreement is structured to protect both landlord and tenant interests while maintaining simplicity and clarity in its terms. It's commonly used for residential rentals, small office spaces, and retail establishments where complex commercial lease provisions are not necessary.

1. Parties: Identification and details of the lessor (landlord) and lessee (tenant), including their complete addresses

2. Background: Brief context about the property and the parties' intention to enter into a lease arrangement

3. Definitions: Key terms used in the agreement defined for clarity

4. Premises Details: Specific description of the leased property including address and boundaries

5. Term and Renewal: Duration of lease, commencement date, and conditions for renewal

6. Rent and Security Deposit: Rent amount, payment schedule, security deposit details, and mode of payment

7. Utilities and Maintenance: Responsibility for utility payments and maintenance obligations

8. Use of Premises: Permitted uses of the property and restrictions

9. Lessor's Covenants: Obligations and promises of the landlord

10. Lessee's Covenants: Obligations and promises of the tenant

11. Termination: Conditions and process for early termination by either party

12. Governing Law: Specification of Indian law as governing law and jurisdiction

13. Notices: Process and addresses for serving notices between parties