Lease Agreement requirements in Utah
- Must be in writing for leases longer than one year (Statute of Frauds).
- Include names of all tenants and landlord, property address, lease term, rent amount, due date, and late fees.
- Disclose any known lead-based paint hazards if the property was built before 1978.
- Specify security deposit amount, its use, and the required return timeline (within 30 days after move-out).
- Include rules on pets, subletting, and maintenance responsibilities to avoid disputes.
- Both parties should sign; notarization is not required by state law, but witnesses are not mandatory either.
How to create a Lease Agreement in Utah
- Download a Utah-specific lease template or create your own that complies with state laws.
- Fill in all details: property information, rent, deposit, utilities, and any additional terms like parking or lawn care.
- Review Utah landlord-tenant laws (Title 57, Chapter 22) to ensure your lease doesn't violate tenant rights.
- Print two copies – one for the landlord, one for the tenant.
- Have both parties sign and date the lease. While not required, consider having signatures witnessed or notarized to prevent future disputes.
- Give a copy to the tenant and keep the original for your records.
What a Lease Agreement typically costs
Most lease templates are free or low-cost (under $50). Attorney review may cost $200–$500. In Utah, there are no mandatory filing fees; the lease is private between landlord and tenant. However, some cities may require rental registration, which can cost up to $100 per unit.
Get your free Utah lease agreement template now and secure your rental.
Create your lease agreementPre-Start Checklist for Utah Lease Agreement
Before you draft a Utah residential lease, gather key information and understand local requirements to avoid common pitfalls.
- Verify the property address and legal description, and confirm you have the right to rent it (ownership or management authority).
- Gather applicant information: full legal names, contact details, employment and income verification, and prior landlord references.
- Know Utah's security deposit limits (no statutory maximum, but be reasonable) and required notice for deductions (within 60 days of lease end).
- Understand state-specific rules: landlords must provide a move-in condition checklist (if deposit is taken) and disclose lead paint hazards for pre-1978 builds.
- Decide on key terms: rent amount and due date, late fees (must be reasonable), utilities, pets, maintenance responsibilities, and lease duration.
- Consider if you need an attorney to review complex clauses like arbitration, early termination, or attorney's fees, and ensure the lease complies with the Utah Fit Premises Act.
Frequently asked questions
Is a verbal lease agreement valid in Utah?
For leases less than one year, oral agreements are generally valid and enforceable. However, for leases longer than a year, Utah's Statute of Frauds requires a written agreement. It's always safer to have a written lease.
Do I need a lawyer to create a lease in Utah?
No, you can use a standard template. But if you have complex terms or a high-value property, consulting a local landlord-tenant attorney is wise.
What are the notice requirements for rent increases in Utah?
For month-to-month tenancies, Utah law requires at least 15 days' notice before changing rent or other terms. For fixed-term leases, the rent is locked for the duration unless the lease provides otherwise.
How long must a landlord keep a lease agreement in Utah?
The statute of limitations for lease contract disputes is 6 years for written agreements. It's recommended to keep signed leases for at least that long to protect your rights.