Residential lease agreements are used when renting residential property, such as houses or apartments. They are different from commercial lease agreements, which are used to rent commercial property, such as office space. The specific laws governing residential lease agreements vary by state. Typical residential lease agreements are legal forms that detail the terms of a lease, including the length of the lease and the amount of rent to be paid and when it is due. Lease agreements may also include specific rules regarding alterations to the property such as painting or wallpapering, rules regarding pets, and what penalties may occur if the lease is violated. Residential lease agreements protect both tenants and landlords by clearly outlining the rules, responsibilities, and terms of the rental agreement. In the event of a dispute between a landlord and tenant, having a valid and legal residential lease agreement is beneficial, and will ensure a fair and quick resolution.