What is required for a lease to be considered valid?

For a lease to be considered valid, it must have a defined duration, which establishes the time frame of the agreement between the landlord and the tenant. This duration can be for a specified term, like a year-long lease, or be indefinite with provisions for termination. A clear timeframe allows both parties to understand their commitments and expectations for how long the tenant has the right to occupy the property and when the landlord can reclaim possession.

While other factors, such as having a written agreement, signed confirmation, and clear property identification, can contribute to the enforceability of a lease, the essential requirement that directly impacts the fundamental nature of the lease is its defined duration. Without a specified term, the lease may fail to meet the legal standards for enforceability, potentially leading to disputes regarding the tenant's rights or the landlord's intentions.