Property is a residential dwelling and all connected fixtures to be rented by a landlord.
 

A landlord is an owner of real property who, through a lease or rental agreement, promises to rent all or a portion of the property to another person (a “tenant”) for his or her exclusive use – usually for a set period of time and in exchange for an agreed-upon amount of money. This is also called a Property Manager or Lessor.
 

A tenant is the person who enters into a lease with an owner of rental property to reside at the property for a specified amount of time in exchange for the payment of rent. This is also called a Resident or Lessee.
 

A security/damage deposit is a one-time fee intended to offset major repairs and damages or unpaid rent.
 

Rent is the payment of a specified amount of money for the right to occupy a property. This is usually paid in monthly installments.
 

A lease is a legally binding contract between the tenant(s) and landlord that spells out the conditions under which property is rented for a specified period of time. Leases may be written or oral, however, oral agreements may be difficult to prove in court should a dispute arise. This is also called a rental agreement.
 

A guarantor is required by some apartment complexes and other rental properties. This person provides proof to the claim that they are legally and financially responsible if you do not meet financial qualifications on your own. Typically, guarantors are parents or other legal guardians and must supply their name, employer information, annual earnings, credit history, and an address/phone number. The guarantor is equally responsible and liable for any defaults and settlements.
 

A term of lease identifies in months or years the duration of the lease from beginning to end.
 

The termination date of lease specifies the lease’s ending date. If you plan to move out at the termination date of lease, you must submit a notice in writing usually at least thirty days prior to the date.
 

Abandonment occurs when a tenant’s conduct demonstrates his or her intent to give up the right to reside in the rental property without the landlord’s authorization or agreement. For example, if the tenant hires a moving company, removes all of his or her belongings from the rental unit, and has not been seen on the premises for two weeks, then the tenant can be potentially said to have abandoned the rental property.
 

Eviction is a court-based process through which a landlord may remove a tenant from rental property, with good cause and after following a number of procedural requirements.
 

Renewal is an option for the tenant upon termination of a lease or rental agreement, giving him or her the choice to renew the agreement during a certain window of time.
 

Right of Entry is a landlord’s very limited right to enter premises, usually only in emergency situations, to show the unit to a prospective tenant or make repairs. In most situations, proper notice is required prior to entry.
 

Community policies and rules are rules, regulations and standards over and above timely payment of rent and general residence requirements. These may include clauses regarding parties, visitor parking, excessive and prolonged noise, use of recreational facilities on property, etc. Ask the manager for a copy of these policies and rules if they are not included in the lease.

Source: Louisiana Attorney General’s Office

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