Month-to-Month Lease Agreement template

Free month-to-month lease agreement template

Looking for a simple, flexible rental contract that renews automatically each month? Docusign’s free month-to-month lease agreement form is a customizable rental contract that is designed for short-term tenancies or ongoing leases with no fixed end date. It's ideal for landlords and tenants who want flexibility while still covering all the basics of an ongoing lease agreement.

The rental agreement template includes essential provisions like rent amount, due date, security deposit terms, landlord and tenant obligations, and both a termination clause and early termination conditions. It also outlines the notice period to terminate the tenancy, usually 30 days from either party, making this month-to-month agreement perfect for evolving rental situations.

To get started, just click to open the agreement in your Docusign account (or start with a free trial). Once the month-to-month rental contract is customized to your liking, you can send it out for signature, store it securely, and download a hard copy whenever needed.

What is a month to month lease agreement?

A month-to-month lease agreement is a flexible rental contract that typically renews automatically each month until either the landlord or tenant provides written notice to terminate it. It is also known legally as a “month-to-month tenancy.” The month-to-month rental contract’s  biggest advantage lies in its flexibility, allowing tenants short-term housing options and landlords the ability to adjust rental rates or property use more frequently.

What is included in a month to month lease agreement?

While state requirements may vary, the following components are typically necessary to ensure validity of a month-to-month lease agreement:

• Identification of parties: Full legal names of the landlord(s) and tenant(s) and contact information for both parties.

• Property description: Complete address of the rental property and description of any included furnishings or appliances.

• Lease term: Clearly state that the lease is month-to-month and outline the start date of the lease.

• Rent details: Specify the monthly rent amount, payment due date, acceptable payment methods, and late payment penalties, if applicable. 

• Security deposit: Amount of security deposit required and conditions under which the deposit will be refunded.

• Utilities and other expenses: Specify which utilities or other expenses are the tenant’s responsibility and include any shared expenses or arrangements.

• Maintenance and repairs: Outline the landlord's and tenant's responsibilities regarding maintenance and repairs.

• Entry and inspection: Conditions under which the landlord may enter the property (e.g., notice requirements).

• Termination and notice requirements: Procedures for lease termination, including required notice periods for both parties. Typical notice period for a month-to-month lease is 30 days, but this can vary by state (e.g. Delaware requires 60 days, and North Carolina permits 7‑day notices)

• Governing law: Specify which state’s laws will govern the lease agreement.

• Signatures section: Space for signatures of both parties and dates.

Additional (optional) clauses

While not required, a month-to-month lease agreement may also include sections for:

• Rules on pets

• Subletting

• Alterations

• Detailed rules for tenant behavior and property use

• Dispute Resolution (methods for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration)

• Insurance Requirements (specify any insurance requirements for tenants)

Reasons to use a month-to-month lease agreement

Month-to-month tenancies are ideal for situations where long-term commitments are impractical or uncertain, making them a popular choice for both landlords and tenants. Whether you’re navigating a temporary move, testing out a new living arrangement, or managing a property during a transition period, this lease structure can provide the adaptability you need. 

Here are some common reasons why you may want to use a month-to-month lease agreement:

• Transitional Housing: For individuals relocating or needing temporary accommodation while searching for a permanent home.

• Short-Term Projects or Internships: Useful for professionals or students with assignments of limited duration.

• Flexibility for Landlords: Allows landlords to adjust rental rates more frequently or occupy the property themselves with appropriate notice.

• Renters in Uncertain Situations: Suitable for tenants unsure of their long-term plans or employment stability.

• Testing the Landlord-Tenant Relationship: Offers both parties an opportunity to evaluate compatibility before committing to a longer lease.

• Seasonal Workers: Ideal for housing seasonal employees requiring temporary accommodation during specific periods.

• Property Renovations or Sales: Provides temporary housing while a homeowner renovates their primary residence or awaits the sale of a property.

Month-to-month leases provide unmatched flexibility, ideal for uncertain timelines or changing circumstances. With approximately 35% of Americans renting, this lease agreement format supports a wide range of housing needs. Ultimately, it allows tenants and landlords to adapt quickly, while giving both parties clarity and control over lease termination.