ARTICLE 12: GENERAL PROVISIONS
12.1 Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of [STATE NAME]. Any legal proceedings shall be brought in the courts of [COUNTY/JURISDICTION].
12.2 Dispute Resolution
The parties agree to attempt resolution of any disputes through [Mediation/Arbitration/Direct Negotiation] before pursuing litigation. Mediation/arbitration costs shall be [Shared Equally/Borne by Non-Prevailing Party].
12.3 Entire Agreement
This Agreement, including all attachments and addenda, constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, or agreements, whether written or oral. No verbal agreements or representations shall be binding.
12.4 Amendments
This Agreement may be amended or modified only by written instrument signed by both parties. No oral modifications shall be valid or enforceable.
12.5 Severability
If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. The invalid provision shall be reformed to the extent possible to reflect the parties' intent.
12.6 Notices
All notices required under this Agreement shall be in writing and delivered by: (a) certified mail, return receipt requested; (b) hand delivery with signed receipt; or (c) email to the addresses specified below. Notices shall be deemed received upon delivery or [3] days after mailing.
Landlord Notice Address: [ADDRESS/EMAIL]
Tenant Notice Address: [ADDRESS/EMAIL]
12.7 Waiver
Failure by either party to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of that provision or any other provision. No waiver shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the waiving party.
12.8 Binding Effect
This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns, subject to the restrictions on assignment contained herein.
12.9 Time is of the Essence
Time is of the essence in this Agreement. All deadlines and time periods specified herein are material terms of this Agreement.
12.10 Interpretation
Headings are for convenience only and shall not affect interpretation. Use of singular includes plural and vice versa. `Including` means `including but not limited to.` This Agreement shall not be construed against the drafting party.
ARTICLE 13: ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES AND CLAUSES
13.1 Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Pre-1978 Properties)
[IF APPLICABLE - Property built before 1978]
Landlord has [Knowledge / No Knowledge] of lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the housing. Landlord has provided Tenant with: (a) EPA pamphlet on lead poisoning prevention; (b) available records/reports regarding lead-based paint; and (c) 10-day opportunity to conduct lead inspection. Tenant acknowledges receipt of these documents.
13.2 Mold Disclosure
Landlord [Is / Is Not] aware of any mold or moisture problems in the premises. Tenant agrees to maintain proper ventilation, promptly report water leaks or moisture issues, and use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchen to prevent mold growth. Tenant shall be responsible for mold resulting from Tenant's failure to maintain proper ventilation or report moisture issues.
13.3 Bed Bug Addendum
Tenant certifies that all furniture and belongings brought into the premises are free from bed bugs. Tenant agrees to immediately notify Landlord of any suspected bed bug infestation. Treatment costs shall be borne by [Landlord/Tenant/Party Determined Responsible].
13.4 Military Clause
[IF APPLICABLE] If Tenant is a member of the armed forces on active duty and receives permanent change of station orders or deployment orders for 90+ days, Tenant may terminate this lease with 30 days written notice and copy of official orders. Security deposit shall be returned in accordance with standard procedures.
13.5 Natural Disaster/Casualty
If the premises become uninhabitable due to fire, natural disaster, or other casualty not caused by Tenant, either party may terminate this lease with written notice. Rent shall be prorated through the date of casualty. If premises are repairable within [60] days, Landlord may elect to repair and rent shall abate during repairs.
13.6 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The premises are equipped with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors as required by law. Tenant shall test detectors monthly, replace batteries as needed, and immediately report any malfunctions. Tenant shall not disable or remove detectors.