Kentucky Apartment Lease Agreement

Download our professional Kentucky Apartment Lease Agreement template to ensure you adhere to the state laws.

Legal Aspects 

The landlord is responsible for assessing an occupant’s employment status, credit history, and other background details. A lease agreement is formulated upon successful approval of the tenant’s application. This agreement encapsulates the mutually agreed-upon terms between both parties.

Security Deposit 

• There’s no upper limit set for security deposits.
• Security deposits must be refunded to tenants within 30 to 60 days.
• The 60 days is provided to tenants to contest any deductions from the security deposit.
• Landlords are obligated to keep security deposits in a distinct account.
• Tenants should be informed about the account’s location and number.
• If a landlord doesn’t maintain such an account, they’re prohibited from retaining any part of the security deposit.
• At the time of moving in, landlords are required to furnish a comprehensive list of pre-existing damages to the property.
• Upon moving out, landlords must provide a detailed list of damages and associated charges to justify any deductions from the security deposit.
• If a landlord decides to withhold a portion or all of the security deposit, the tenant reserves the right to inspect the property after receiving the list of damages.
• The landlord and tenant must complete a property checklist before the landlord can start collecting rent.

Entry and Access 

• Legal Grounds for Entry: This includes conducting inspections, making improvements (including decoration), performing maintenance, showcasing the property, and responding to emergencies.
• Notice Requirement: A reasonable notice, either written or verbal, is typically required before entry. However, in emergencies, no notice is necessary.
• Penalties for Unauthorized Entry: The consequences of illegal entry can include a court injunction, termination of the lease, and the landlord being liable for the cost of damages.

Pets Policy 

A Pet Addendum is a legal document that outlines the rules and responsibilities regarding pet ownership in a rental property. It’s attached to the original lease or rental agreement.

Key aspects typically addressed:

• Description: Detail the animal’s characteristics, such as its species (dog, cat, etc.), breed, size, and name.
• Fees and Deposits: Specify any extra fees, pet deposits, or rent that the tenant needs to pay, often to cover potential animal-induced damage.
• Rules and Restrictions: Set rules for pet ownership within the property, like leash requirements, noise control, and waste cleanup duties.
• Liability: State that the occupant is liable for any damages or injuries caused by their pet, including liability for any injuries to other residents or visitors.
• Inspections: Detail the circumstances and timing under which the landlord can conduct animal-related inspections, such as checking for damage or verifying compliance with the rules.
• Consequences of Violation: Outline the repercussions of breaching the pet-related rules, which could encompass fines, eviction, or other penalties.
• Documentation: Necessitate the occupant to furnish proof of vaccinations, licenses, or other pet-related documentation.

A Pet Addendum sets clear expectations and guidelines for landlords and tenants. It’s a legally binding document that both parties should sign.

Disclosures 

• Manager and Owner Disclosure
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
• Move-in/Move-out Condition Checklist
• Security Deposit Disclosure