Lease Agreement requirements in Oregon
- Must be in writing if the tenancy is for more than one year (per Oregon statute of frauds).
- Include the names of all tenants and the landlord's legal name and address.
- Specify the rental amount, due date, and acceptable payment methods.
- List all fees and charges, including late fees (capped at 5% of rent or $50, whichever is greater, unless otherwise provided).
- Disclose required information: landlord's authorization to rent, any known mold, lead-based paint (for pre-1978 homes), and utility billing details.
- Include security deposit amount and conditions for return (must be returned within 31 days, with itemized deductions).
How to create a Lease Agreement in Oregon
- Check if the property is in a city with rent control (e.g., Portland) and review local landlord-tenant laws.
- Use a written lease template that includes Oregon-specific disclosures, such as the Mold Disclosure and Lead-Based Paint addendum.
- Fill in all terms clearly: rent, late fees, lease duration, and rules for pets, subletting, and maintenance.
- Ensure the lease complies with Oregon's security deposit limits (no more than one month's rent if furnishing included, else two months' rent) and interest requirements (if deposit held more than 12 months).
- Have both parties sign and date the lease. Keep a copy for your records.
- Provide the tenant with a signed copy within a reasonable time after signing.
What a Lease Agreement typically costs
Creating a lease agreement in Oregon is free if you use a template or self-draft. Attorney review can cost between $200 and $500. Note that some templates may require a subscription fee, but the Oregon State Bar offers free resources for landlords and tenants.
Download a free Oregon lease agreement template and ensure your rental is compliant today.
Create your lease agreementOregon Lease Creation Checklist
Before drafting a lease in Oregon, gather key details and understand state-specific rules to avoid common pitfalls.
- Confirm the rental unit's address and whether it's subject to Oregon state law or local city ordinances (e.g., Portland, Eugene).
- Have the tenant's full legal name, contact info, and move-in date; verify screening and security deposit rules.
- Decide on lease term (fixed or month-to-month) and allowable rent increases per Oregon law.
- Review landlord-tenant laws for required disclosures (e.g., lead paint, mold, utility billing) but note specific statutes may apply.
- Prepare for signature: no notarization required, but ensure both parties sign and date; keep copies.
- Check if your city requires rental registration or a business license before finalizing.
Frequently asked questions
Does a lease agreement in Oregon need to be notarized?
No, Oregon does not require notarization for a residential lease to be valid. However, a notary may be used for extra authenticity, especially for commercial leases or when signing in a corporate capacity.
What is the limit on security deposits in Oregon?
Landlords can charge up to one month's rent if the unit is furnished or two months' rent if unfurnished. The deposit must be returned within 31 days after move-out, with an itemized list of deductions. Interest is not required unless the deposit is held for more than 12 months, in which case you must pay interest at the rate set by law.
Can a landlord terminate a month-to-month lease without cause?
Yes, with proper notice. For month-to-month tenancies, a landlord must give at least 30 days' written notice to terminate, but if the tenant has lived there for more than one year, the notice must be at least 60 days. Tenants give 30 days' notice, but there are exceptions for certain situations.