Ask experienced landlords what they'd do differently if they could start over, and many will point to their lease agreements. Not the standard sections about rent and security deposits, those were fine. The problems came from what wasn't in the lease. The specific situations they never thought to address until they happened.

A tenant parks an RV on the front lawn. Someone flushes baby wipes down the toilet repeatedly despite being asked not to. A dishwasher fails because food scraps keep going down the drain. A motorcycle gets repaired in the living room. These aren't hypothetical scenarios. They're real situations that landlords have faced, and they all could have been prevented with the right lease clauses.

Why Specific Lease Clauses Matter

Most standard lease templates cover the basics. But rental properties vary, tenant behavior varies, and local issues vary. A generic lease might work fine until you encounter a situation it doesn't address.

The value of specific lease clauses isn't about being difficult or mistrusting tenants. Most tenants are responsible people who want to do the right thing. The issue is that "the right thing" isn't always obvious. What seems like common sense to you might not occur to someone else.

Clear lease clauses set expectations upfront. They prevent misunderstandings, protect your property, and give both parties clarity about what's allowed and what isn't. When everyone knows the rules from the start, there are fewer surprises and fewer conflicts.

Plumbing and Drain Protection

Plumbing issues are among the most common and expensive problems landlords face. Many of these problems come from tenants not understanding what can and can't go down drains.

What Goes Down Drains

One of the most frequently mentioned clauses experienced landlords wish they'd added earlier is simple: nothing goes down toilets except human waste and toilet paper. No wipes of any kind, even if labeled "flushable." No feminine hygiene products. No paper towels or tissues. No hair from shower drains.

The reason this matters is that "flushable" wipes don't actually break down like toilet paper. They accumulate in pipes, catch on minor imperfections, and eventually create blockages that require professional plumbers to clear. One landlord reported spending $350 repeatedly to have toilets pulled and cleared because a tenant kept flushing tampons despite requests to stop.

Similarly, kitchen drains shouldn't receive food waste beyond what a garbage disposal can handle. Coffee grounds, grease, and solid food scraps cause buildup over time. One landlord found their dishwasher failed because a tenant was putting food-covered dishes directly into it, clogging the drain line with visible food chunks.

Tenant Responsibility for Drain Clogs

Many landlords now include clauses that make tenants responsible for attempting to clear clogs before submitting maintenance requests. This means trying a plunger at toilets or removing hair from shower drains. If basic troubleshooting doesn't work, then the landlord handles it.

Additionally, if a clog is found to be caused by misuse (wipes, hygiene products, excessive hair, food waste), the cost to resolve it gets charged to the tenant. This isn't about punishing people. It's about creating accountability for preventable problems.

The key is documentation. Have the lines inspected and cleaned before a new tenant moves in, with photos or video showing they're clear. Then if problems occur, you have baseline proof that the issue arose during the current tenancy.

Vehicle and Property Exterior Restrictions

What tenants do outside the rental unit can affect property value, neighbor relations, and even local code compliance. Several vehicle-related clauses come up repeatedly in discussions among experienced landlords.

No Driving or Parking on Lawns

This seems obvious until you see tire ruts across what used to be a nice lawn. Some tenants don't realize that parking on grass damages it, especially in wet conditions. Others simply find it convenient.

A clear clause stating that vehicles must be parked in designated areas only, driveways or street parking, not on lawns or landscaped areas, prevents this problem and gives you recourse if it happens.

No Boats, RVs, or Commercial Vehicles

Depending on your property and neighborhood, you may want to prohibit certain types of vehicles on the property. Large RVs parked in driveways can block sight lines, violate HOA rules, or simply look out of place. Boats on trailers take up space and can be eyesores.

If your local codes or neighborhood standards restrict these vehicles, spell it out in the lease. If you're flexible about it, you can always make exceptions in writing for specific situations.

No Vehicle Repairs on Property

One frequently mentioned clause prohibits servicing or repairing motors or motorized vehicles on the property. This includes changing oil, major mechanical work, or repairing lawn equipment inside the house (yes, that happens).

Some landlords make exceptions for minor maintenance in garages, as long as it doesn't interfere with garage door operation or damage the garage, and doesn't violate noise ordinances. The point is to prevent oil stains on driveways, parts scattered around the yard, or safety hazards from improper vehicle work.

Vehicles Must Be Operational

Requiring that vehicles on the property be in good repair and not leaking fluids prevents driveways from being stained with oil, transmission fluid, or coolant. These stains are difficult and expensive to remove.

This also discourages tenants from storing non-functional vehicles on the property, which can create code violations or neighborhood complaints.

Pet-Related Clauses

If you allow pets, specific clauses can prevent common problems that arise from pet ownership.

Pet Waste Removal

Requiring that dog waste be picked up weekly (or more frequently) keeps the yard sanitary and prevents neighbor complaints. Some landlords charge fees per occurrence if this rule is violated and documented.

Nail Trimming for Hardwood Floors

If your property has hardwood floors, you might require that dogs have their nails trimmed regularly. This reduces scratching damage. Pairing this with a requirement for felt pads under furniture legs further protects the floors.

The lease should also make clear that tenants are responsible for excessive scratching beyond normal wear and tear, even with these precautions in place.

Unauthorized Pets

If pets aren't allowed or specific types aren't permitted, the lease should clearly state the consequences. Some landlords charge fees per occurrence for unauthorized pets discovered on the property.

If pet damage occurs from an unauthorized pet, the tenant is responsible for all related costs, and this should be spelled out explicitly.

Safety and Liability Requirements

Some items create significant liability risks. Experienced landlords often prohibit them entirely or set strict conditions around them.

No Trampolines or Above-Ground Pools

Trampolines and pools create serious liability exposure. Injuries on these items can lead to expensive lawsuits and insurance claims. Many landlord insurance policies exclude coverage for these items or require additional premiums.

Prohibiting them outright eliminates the risk. If you do allow them, require proof of additional liability insurance and clear indemnification language.

No Aquariums or Waterbeds

Large aquariums and waterbeds both risk significant water damage if they leak or break. A 50-gallon aquarium failure can destroy flooring, seep through to lower levels, and create mold issues.

If you allow aquariums, consider setting a size limit (perhaps 10-20 gallons maximum) and requiring documentation that they're properly maintained and placed on appropriate surfaces.

Renters Insurance Requirement

Requiring tenants to carry renters insurance with minimum liability coverage (commonly $100,000) protects both parties. The tenant's insurance covers their belongings and liability, while also providing a layer of protection for you as the landlord.

The lease should specify that the tenant's insurance is primary for any claims arising from their actions or negligence, and that they're responsible for legal costs to defend you against claims caused by their behavior.

Make clear that your landlord insurance doesn't cover tenant property, liability, or negligence. This sets proper expectations about who's responsible for what.

Maintenance Responsibility Clarifications

Clear boundaries about maintenance responsibilities prevent disputes and encourage tenants to report problems promptly.

Prompt Issue Reporting

Include language stating that failure to promptly notify the landlord of maintenance issues may make the tenant responsible for additional damage that results from the delay.

For example, if a small leak goes unreported and eventually causes major water damage, the tenant could be liable for the portion of damage that could have been prevented with timely notification.

Consumables and Minor Items

Specify that tenants are responsible for consumables like light bulbs, air filters, smoke detector batteries, and similar routine replacement items. This prevents calls asking you to come change a light bulb.

HVAC Operation

Some landlords include clauses prohibiting tenants from turning off HVAC systems entirely, particularly in climates where this could cause freeze damage or mold growth. The concern is that extended periods without climate control can damage the property itself.

This is location-specific. In mild climates, it may not matter. In areas with harsh winters or humid summers, maintaining some level of temperature control protects the building structure and prevents costly damage.

Seasonal Responsibilities

If tenants are responsible for snow removal, lawn care, or other seasonal tasks, spell this out clearly. In some jurisdictions, if you expect tenants to handle these tasks, you may need to adjust rent accordingly or offer it as an option with different rent amounts.

For winterization, require that outdoor hose spigots be drained and winterized before freezing weather. Burst pipes from frozen exterior faucets are preventable but expensive when they happen.

Financial Protection Clauses

Several financial clauses can protect you from unexpected costs caused by tenant actions.

Pass-Through for Code Violations

If the city or county issues fines for code violations caused by tenant behavior (trash accumulation, unapproved modifications, noise violations), a pass-through clause lets you bill those fines to the tenant within a reasonable timeframe.

This only applies to violations not related to landlord responsibilities like structural issues or required inspections. The clause should specify the timeframe for the tenant to cure the violation before fines apply.

Unauthorized Occupants

Some leases include clauses making tenants responsible for costs incurred evicting any unauthorized occupants who establish residence in the property. This discourages subletting or allowing others to move in without permission.

Contractor Approval

If tenants want to hire contractors for services like landscaping, pest control, or repairs, require that these contractors be licensed and insured, and give yourself the right to veto choices.

This prevents unlicensed or uninsured workers from creating liability issues or doing work that damages the property.

Cleanliness and Pest Prevention

Cleanliness clauses aren't about being picky. They're about preventing pest problems that cost both parties time and money.

Trash and Food Waste

Requiring that food trash be stored in covered containers and taken to the main trash bin at least every three days helps prevent pest infestations. Mice, roaches, and other pests are attracted to accessible food waste.

One landlord reported dealing with a mouse problem only to discover the tenant wasn't cleaning up food crumbs and rarely took out trash. The lease now includes pest control clauses that make tenants responsible for inside pest issues when caused by cleanliness problems.

Weekly Trash and Recycling

Requiring that unit trash and recycling be put out weekly, regardless of how full bins are, prevents accumulation and odor problems.

Litter Removal

Some leases make tenants responsible for removing litter from the front and back of their unit weekly, regardless of who left it there. While this might seem unfair, it keeps the property looking maintained and prevents trash buildup.

This works better for single-family homes than multi-unit properties, where common area maintenance is typically the landlord's responsibility.

Other Specific Restrictions Worth Considering

No Burning Incense Indoors

One landlord discovered a tenant was sticking incense sticks directly into the drywall and lighting them, creating dozens of holes and scorch marks. Prohibiting burning incense indoors, or requiring it only be used in proper holders on non-flammable surfaces, prevents this.

Cutting Boards and Heat Protection

Requiring that cutting boards be used instead of cutting directly on countertops, and that hot pads be used for hot items, protects kitchen surfaces from damage.

No Writing on Fixtures

Believe it or not, some tenants write notes or labels directly on appliances or fixtures with permanent markers or pens. Prohibiting this seems silly until you have to clean marker off a refrigerator.

Fireplace Use Requirements

If your property has a fireplace, specify that it's a perk but use isn't guaranteed. Require adult supervision, a fire extinguisher in the room, use of fire curtains/screens, and that soft woods be minimized (they create more creosote buildup).

Similarly, outdoor fires must comply with local codes, require adult supervision, and have fire extinguishers or charged hoses available.

Important Considerations and Caveats

Before adding these clauses to your lease, there are several important things to understand.

Local Laws Take Precedence

No lease clause can override local, state, or federal law. What's enforceable in one jurisdiction might be prohibited in another. Some areas restrict what landlords can require tenants to do, particularly around maintenance tasks and fee structures.

Before adding new clauses, research your local landlord-tenant laws or consult with a real estate attorney familiar with your area.

Reasonableness Matters

Courts generally expect lease terms to be reasonable. Excessive restrictions, unclear language, or punitive fees that seem designed to trap tenants rather than protect property may not hold up if challenged.

The goal is to protect your property and set clear expectations, not to create gotcha situations where tenants constantly face fees for minor issues.

Documentation Is Critical

Having these clauses in your lease is only useful if you can prove violations occurred. Take photos at move-in showing clear drains, unstained driveways, and undamaged surfaces. Document any violations with photos, dates, and written communication.

Without documentation, lease clauses become difficult to enforce and disputes turn into your word against the tenant's.

Use Professional Lease Templates

Don't just copy clauses from the internet and paste them into your lease. Work with a qualified real estate attorney to ensure your lease is comprehensive, legally sound, and appropriate for your jurisdiction.

Many landlord associations also provide state-specific lease templates that include common protective clauses and comply with local laws.

Communicate Clearly

Having clauses in the lease is important, but so is explaining them to tenants before they sign. Walk through the important points, especially anything unusual or specific to your property.

Most tenants appreciate knowing expectations upfront. It's the surprises that create conflict. When someone knows from day one that wipes can't be flushed or that boats can't be parked in the driveway, it's much less likely to become an issue.

The Balance Between Protection and Livability

Reading through all these clauses might make it seem like you need pages of restrictions to protect yourself. That's not the point. The goal isn't to create an intimidating lease full of prohibitions that make tenants feel like they're walking on eggshells.

The goal is to address specific issues that commonly cause problems and expenses. Think about your property, your past experiences, and your local area. What clauses make sense for your situation?

If you don't have hardwood floors, you don't need clauses about furniture pads and dog nails. If you're in a warm climate where freezing isn't a concern, winterization clauses don't apply. If your property is in a neighborhood where RVs and boats are common and accepted, you might not need to prohibit them.

Choose clauses that solve actual problems, not theoretical ones. Your lease should protect your property without making it feel like a list of everything tenants can't do.

Learning From Experience

The experienced landlords who shared these clause suggestions didn't start with perfect leases. They learned from problems that happened, situations they hadn't anticipated, and expensive lessons about what to address upfront.

Your lease will evolve over time too. You'll encounter situations you didn't expect, and you'll refine your lease to address them. That's normal and smart. Every problem that occurs is an opportunity to prevent it from happening again.

The key is to learn from others' experiences when possible, rather than having to learn everything through your own costly mistakes. These clause suggestions represent hundreds of landlords' combined experience with thousands of rental situations. You don't have to reinvent the wheel.

Final Thought

A strong lease agreement is one of your most valuable tools as a landlord. It sets expectations, prevents misunderstandings, and gives you recourse when problems occur. But it only works if it addresses the situations that actually happen in your properties.

These clauses aren't about being difficult or mistrusting. They're about clarity. When both parties know exactly what's expected, what's allowed, and what the consequences are for violations, the relationship works better for everyone.

Review your current lease with these suggestions in mind. Are there gaps that have caused you problems? Are there common issues in your area that you haven't addressed? Talk to other landlords, consult with an attorney, and build a lease that protects your property while still being fair and reasonable.

The best time to add these clauses was before problems occurred. The second-best time is now, before the next lease gets signed.