When it comes to renting a property, one of the most important documents you`ll sign is the rental agreement. This legally binding contract outlines the terms of your tenancy, including the rent amount, lease duration, and any rules or restrictions you must abide by while occupying the rental property. But who should be responsible for paying for this crucial document?

Landlord

In most cases, the landlord is responsible for drafting the rental agreement and providing it to the tenant. This is typically included in the landlord`s expenses and is considered a cost of doing business. Landlords may choose to use a standard rental agreement template or have an attorney create a custom document tailored to their specific property and needs.

Tenant

While the landlord is responsible for creating the rental agreement, the tenant is typically required to sign it and may be responsible for covering the cost of any copies or modifications to the document. Some landlords may charge a fee for creating or renewing the rental agreement, but this should be clearly outlined in the lease agreement.

Shared Responsibility

In some cases, both the landlord and tenant may share the responsibility of paying for the rental agreement. For example, if the tenant requests changes or modifications to the lease agreement, they may be responsible for covering the cost of those changes. Alternatively, if the landlord requires a background check or credit check as part of the tenant screening process, they may charge a fee to cover those costs.

Conclusion

Ultimately, who pays for the rental agreement may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the rental agreement. In most cases, however, it will be the landlord`s responsibility to draft the document, while the tenant will be responsible for signing it. If you have any questions about who should pay for the rental agreement, it`s best to review your lease agreement or speak with your landlord directly to clarify any confusion.