What happens if my landlord fails to include required disclosures in my lease?

Landlords who omit required disclosures may be unable to enforce certain lease terms, and tenants may pursue remedies under Oregon law.

Can a landlord change the rules or increase rent before the lease ends?

Rules and rent cannot change during a fixed-term lease. For month-to-month rentals, landlords must give 90 days' written notice for rent increases.

Do I need to use a special form to give notice to move out?

Written notice is always required; using the official Oregon Judicial Department form is recommended to cover all legal details.

Who do I contact for help if my lease is missing legal requirements?

Contact Oregon Housing and Community Services, local legal aid, or your county Circuit Court for advice or dispute resolution.

Is a verbal lease valid in Oregon?

Verbal leases for month-to-month rentals are legal, but a written lease gives clearer protection for both renter and landlord.

Oregon Lease Agreement Requirements: What Renters Must Know

Lease Agreements & Renewals Oregon published: June 21, 2025

Signing a lease is a critical step for any renter in Oregon. Lease agreements outline your rights and responsibilities, setting the groundwork for a positive rental experience. Knowing what must be included in a lease protects you from surprises, missed protections, or accidental violations. This guide explains the required elements, disclosures, and official forms so you can feel confident about your rental agreement.

Essential Components of a Lease Agreement in Oregon

Oregon law requires specific information and disclosures in every residential lease. These requirements ensure both parties understand their obligations and legal protections. A lease—also called a rental agreement—can be written, oral, or a combination, though written agreements provide the most legal clarity.

Names and Contact Information: All tenants and the landlord (or agent) must be listed, with contact details.
Property Description: Address of the rental unit, and any included spaces (like parking or storage).
Lease Term: Specifies if the lease is fixed-term (with end date) or month-to-month.
Rent Details: Monthly rent amount, due dates, where/how to pay, and late fee policies.
Security Deposit: Amount, permissible deductions, and terms for return (see Oregon security deposit laws).
Utilities: Who pays which utilities and what is included in the rent.
Entry Rights: Landlord’s right of entry, required notice periods, and emergency entry exceptions.
Maintenance and Repairs: Who is responsible for maintaining certain areas or appliances.
Rules and Restrictions: For pets, smoking, noise, or alterations, if applicable.
Disclosures: Legally required information (see below).

A clear, complete lease helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes between landlords and tenants.

Mandatory Disclosures for Oregon Rental Agreements

State law requires certain disclosures to be provided in rental agreements. Failing to include or provide these could impact your rights or even void certain lease provisions.

Landlord Identification: Name and address of the person authorized to manage the property and receive notices^[1].
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For homes built before 1978, landlords must provide the EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form and EPA information pamphlet.
Flood Plain Disclosure: If the dwelling is in a 100-year flood plain, written notice is required.
Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Landlords must inform tenants of alarm type, location, and provide working alarms at move-in per Oregon law.
Recycling Information: In some areas, especially multifamily properties, recycling instructions or availability may be required.
Utility Billing Disclosure: If utilities are billed by the landlord or third party, method and fees must be clearly described^[2].

For comprehensive details, review the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90).

Required and Useful Forms for Oregon Renters

Move-In/Move-Out Condition Report (No official form number):
While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to complete a written condition report at move-in. This can help you recover your security deposit. The Oregon Courts provide tips, but you can create your own checklist, documenting unit condition and getting landlord and tenant signatures. Tips for Move-In Inspections from OSB.
Notice of Termination (ORS 90.427):
If you or the landlord are ending a month-to-month rental, a written notice is required. The number of days depends on circumstances—generally 30 days. Use the template from the Oregon Judicial Department forms page under "Landlord/Tenant Forms."
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (EPA Form):
Required for pre-1978 homes, this form alerts you to known lead hazards. The EPA provides the disclosure form and pamphlet which must be signed upon move-in.
Security Deposit Itemization (No official form number):
Upon move-out, landlords must provide an itemized security deposit statement within 31 days. Request a written explanation if you do not receive one. Sample forms are available on the Oregon Housing and Community Services site.

Download forms directly from the Oregon Judicial Department's Landlord/Tenant Forms page.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Oregon?

Rental disagreements, evictions, and other tenancy matters are overseen by local Oregon Circuit Courts, often specifically within Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord/Tenant Courts. Major disputes or eviction cases are filed here. For general tenant rights help, you can also consult Oregon Housing and Community Services and local legal aid.

What Oregon Law Governs Leases?

Leases and rental agreements in Oregon are regulated by the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90), which covers required lease content, eviction procedures, security deposits, landlord entry, and more. Always review relevant sections of the Act if you have specific questions.

Tip: Never sign a lease that does not contain all of the required information—or any blank spaces. Ask for clarification or time to review if needed.

FAQ: Lease Agreements in Oregon

What happens if my landlord fails to include required disclosures in my lease?
Landlords who omit key disclosures may be unable to enforce parts of your lease, and you could have grounds for complaints or legal remedies according to the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Can a landlord change the rules or increase rent before the lease ends?
For fixed-term leases, rent cannot be increased or rules changed until after the lease expires. For month-to-month tenancies, at least 90 days' written notice is required before a rent increase^[3].
Do I need to use a special form to give notice to move out?
Written notice is always required for ending a lease. While you can write your own, using the official form from the Oregon Judicial Department will ensure you include all necessary details.
Who do I contact for help if I think my lease is missing legal requirements?
You can reach out to Oregon Housing and Community Services or your county's legal aid office for renter assistance. Major disputes may require filing with your local Oregon Circuit Court.
Is a verbal lease valid in Oregon?
Yes, oral agreements are valid for month-to-month rentals, but having a detailed written lease offers stronger legal protection for both sides.

Conclusion: What Oregon Renters Should Remember

Review your lease to ensure it contains all legally required elements and disclosures.
Use official forms whenever possible for notices or disclosures.
Don't hesitate to seek advice or clarification; resources and support are available for Oregon renters.

Understanding lease requirements gives you confidence and protection as a renter in Oregon.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Oregon Housing and Community Services – Information on rental rights, housing programs, and complaint guidance.
Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord/Tenant Forms – Official forms, instructions, and legal information.
Oregon Law Help – Connect with local legal aid services and tenant advocacy groups.
Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full legislation for reference.

See ORS 90.305, Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
See ORS 90.315, utility billing in the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
ORS 90.323: Rent increases and written notice, official state law text in ORS Chapter 90.