What happens if my lease is missing information?

If your written lease is missing required information, Kentucky law may supply default terms, but it’s safer to get all details in writing.

Can my landlord change the lease after signing?

No, lease changes require agreement by both landlord and tenant and should be documented in writing.

Do I have to sign the move-in checklist?

Yes, signing the move-in checklist documents the property’s condition at move-in and helps protect your security deposit.

Is a verbal lease agreement enforceable in Kentucky?

Verbal lease agreements under one year can be legally binding but written leases offer more protection.

Essential Items Required in a Kentucky Lease Agreement

Lease Agreements & Renewals Kentucky published: June 21, 2025

Signing a lease is a major step when renting a home or apartment in Kentucky. Understanding what needs to be included in your rental agreement can help protect your rights and prevent misunderstandings with your landlord. This guide covers the required elements of a Kentucky residential lease agreement, relevant forms, and official resources—all in plain language for renters.

Key Components of a Lease Agreement in Kentucky

Kentucky law doesn’t require leases to be written (they can be oral for leases less than one year), but having a written lease gives both renters and landlords clear expectations and legal protection. According to the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383), a written lease agreement must contain specific information to be legally valid.

Required Elements in a Written Lease

Names and signatures: Full legal names and signatures of all tenants and the landlord or property manager.
Property address: The complete street address of the rental property.
Lease term: The start and end dates of the lease, or if it’s a month-to-month agreement.
Rent details: The monthly rent amount, when and how it’s to be paid, and any late fees.
Security deposit terms: Amount of the deposit, where it is held, and conditions for return. (See below for unique Kentucky rules.)
Maintenance and repair responsibilities: Who handles repairs, maintenance, and how requests should be submitted.
Utilities: Which utilities (e.g., gas, water, electricity) are included in the rent, and which are the tenant’s responsibility.
Entry notice requirements: The notice landlords must provide before entering the rental (at least two days’ notice, except in emergencies).
Rules and policies: Any building policies on smoking, pets, or noise.
Disclosure of owner/manager contact: Landlords must disclose the name and address of the property owner and any property managers.

Security Deposit Requirements and Check-In List

Kentucky law requires landlords to provide a written statement of the property’s condition at move-in if they collect a security deposit. This is commonly called a move-in checklist. Both landlord and renter must sign this list.

Security Deposit Location: Landlords must disclose where the deposit is held and the bank's account number when the lease begins.
Move-in Checklist: Used to document existing damages or issues, helping protect renters from unfair deductions when moving out.

The Kentucky Move-In/Move-Out Checklist is the official form for this purpose.

Tip: Always keep a signed copy of your lease and move-in checklist for your records. Take photos of the rental unit before moving in to document its condition.

Other Required Disclosures

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For housing built before 1978, landlords must provide a lead-based paint disclosure form and an EPA-approved pamphlet (more info here).
Security Deposit Statement: Tenants should receive a written, itemized statement of deductions from their deposit upon moving out if any deductions are made.

Kentucky Lease Agreement Forms and How to Use Them

Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (KY Attorney General Form): Use this at the start and end of your lease to record the condition of the unit. Both parties sign the form. This protects you if the landlord later claims damages you did not cause.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form: Required for properties built before 1978. Landlords must provide this at or before lease signing. Renters should read and sign to acknowledge receipt.

Official lease templates may vary by county or city (especially since not all Kentucky counties have adopted the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act). Always review forms from your local authority or contact your local courthouse if unsure.

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Which Agency Handles Rental Disputes in Kentucky?

Most rental disputes in Kentucky are handled by the Kentucky Court of Justice, most often in District Court. Some cities (such as Lexington-Fayette and Louisville-Jefferson County) have adopted the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), so check your city or county for local tenant-landlord offices.

What Is the Key Kentucky Law for Leases?

The main law is Kentucky Revised Statutes, KRS Chapter 383 - Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. If your city or county hasn't adopted this Act, common law and other portions of Kentucky statutes may apply.

FAQ for Kentucky Renters

What happens if my lease is missing information?
If a written lease leaves out required information, state law may fill in the gaps by default. It’s best to get missing items added to your agreement in writing.
Can my landlord change the lease after signing?
No, changes require both landlord and tenant agreement, and should be documented with both parties’ signatures.
Do I have to sign the move-in checklist?
Yes—signing the move-in checklist protects you from being blamed for damage you didn’t cause. Always keep a copy for your records.
What if I didn’t get a copy of my lease?
Your landlord is required to provide you with a signed copy of your lease. Request it in writing and keep a copy of your request.
Is a verbal agreement enforceable in Kentucky?
For leases under one year, verbal agreements can be legally binding, but written agreements offer far more protection for both renters and landlords.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

Every Kentucky lease should clearly state names, rent terms, property address, deposit info, and both sides’ responsibilities.
Always use the official move-in/move-out checklist and keep a signed copy.
Check which landlord-tenant law applies in your city or county and know where to get help if a dispute arises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kentucky Court of Justice – Handles rental disputes and eviction cases.
Office of the Kentucky Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources – Guides and forms for renters and landlords.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Kentucky Resources
Kentucky Housing Corporation – Affordable housing programs and tenant assistance.