What is a tenant at will?

A tenant at will, also known as a month-to-month tenant, is a type of rental agreement between a landlord and tenant that does not have a fixed term. Instead, it operates on a monthly basis, allowing either party to terminate the agreement with proper notice.

Some key points to understand about a tenant at will arrangement are:

1. Flexibility: Since there is no fixed lease term, it provides both the landlord and tenant with more flexibility. The tenant can choose to stay or leave at the end of each month, and the landlord can decide to terminate the agreement or adjust the terms with proper notice.

2. Termination Notice: Unlike fixed-term leases, terminating the tenancy in a tenant at will agreement typically requires a written notice in advance. The notice period is usually 30 days, but it may vary depending on local rental laws and regulations.

3. Rent Pricing: Typically, tenant at will agreements may have higher monthly rent compared to a similar lease with a fixed-term. This is because the landlord incurs more uncertainty with respect to rental income and must accommodate for potential fluctuations.

4. Limited Security of Tenancy: In a tenant at will arrangement, the tenant does not have the same level of security as someone with a fixed-term lease. The landlord may end the tenancy for various reasons, including renovation, sale of the property, or no cause at all (according to local laws).

5. Rights and Responsibilities: Both the landlord and the tenant retain their rights and obligations as per local rental laws and regulations. The tenant is responsible for paying rent, maintaining the property, and following any specific rules or restrictions defined in the agreement. The landlord must provide habitable living conditions, perform necessary repairs, and comply with legal obligations.

It is important to note that the specific rules and regulations governing tenant at will agreements may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. It is advisable for both landlords and tenants to familiarize themselves with the local laws and consult legal professionals if needed to ensure compliance and understand their rights and responsibilities.