Lease Agreement

This Lease Agreement is entered into between the Lessor or manager of the property (hereinafter referred to as the “Lessor” or “Host”) and the user making the reservation and staying at the property (hereinafter referred to as the “Lessee” or “Guest”). The Lessee must be at least 18 years of age, and only the Lessee and family members or friends pre-approved by the Lessor may occupy the property during the stay. If any unauthorized occupants are found, the Lessee must vacate the property immediately, and no refund will be provided. Keys to the property will only be issued to adults.

The HandalStay platform (hereinafter referred to as the “Platform”) serves solely as an intermediary to list the property, confirm reservations, process payments, and assist in dispute resolution. The Platform does not provide the property or assume any rights or obligations under this Lease Agreement.

2. Lease Terms

The lease period is from check-in to check-out, with a minimum stay of 30 days. The monthly rent fea is determined based on the property listing. Utilities are charged either as a fixed monthly amount or as separately stated. The security deposit is set according to the property listing. All times are in Eastern Standard Time (EST), and all transactions are in U.S. Dollars (USD).

No refunds are provided for early departures, except when the property or its facilities are deemed uninhabitable. In such cases, the Lessee may request early termination, and if reasonable grounds are demonstrated, the Lessor or the Lessor’s Agent will review the request and determine a fair refund.

3. Security Deposit

The security deposit is used to cover property damage, additional cleaning costs, or unpaid charges. Payment handling varies by method:

· Stripe Card Payments: A hold is placed for 30 days, and if the Lessor makes a claim, partial charges may be applied.

· U.S. Bank Account (ACH) Payments: Actual charges are processed, and partial refunds may be issued during settlement.

Settlement is completed within 48 hours after check-out. If the Lessor does not submit a claim within 48 hours, automatic settlement occurs. The Lessor must provide the claimed amount and supporting evidence. In case of disputes, the Platform will mediate and determine the outcome.

The Lessee must return the property in the same condition as at check-in. Excessive trash, damage, or rule violations may result in deductions from the security deposit or additional charges.

4. Check-in (Move-in) and Check-out (Move-out)

Check-in and check-out times are set by the Lessor. It is recommended that a move-in inspection report be completed at check-in. The Lessor will inspect the property before check-out.

The Lessor or their Agent may enter the property with at least 24 hours’ notice in cases of emergency, essential repairs, pre-agreed services, or to show the property to potential buyers, renters, or contractors.

5. Property Use Rules

The Lessee shall use the property solely for residential purposes; commercial activities are prohibited. Maximum occupancy is limited to the number specified in the reservation. Pet and smoking policies follow the Lessor’s rules.

If smoking is detected in a non-smoking property, the security deposit will be forfeited, and additional costs for carpet cleaning, deodorizing, or repairs may apply. Lessees must comply with property and building noise regulations and ensure safety when using balconies, pools, patios, or other amenities. The Lessee is responsible for the safety of all occupants and guests.

6. Lessee Obligations

The Lessee must pay rent on time, maintain the property in good condition, and avoid damage. The Lessee must comply with property and building rules and is encouraged to obtain renter’s insurance. Unauthorized occupants, falsified reservations, or illegal activities may result in immediate eviction without a refund.

7. Lessor Obligations

The Lessor must provide the property as listed and maintain essential facilities. The Lessor guarantees accurate property information and shall not enter the premises without the Lessee’s prior consent, except in cases of emergency, essential inspections, or pre-agreed services.

8. Termination of Lease

Lessees may not unilaterally terminate the lease during the agreed rental period. Early termination may only occur if the Lessee can demonstrate reasonable grounds (e.g., the property is uninhabitable) and agrees with the Lessor; refunds will follow mutual agreement.

Lessors may terminate the lease early only in cases of significant breaches by the Lessee, such as unpaid rent, rule violations, illegal activity, unauthorized occupants, or falsified reservations. Early termination for personal reasons unrelated to Lessee conduct is not permitted.

Eviction procedures will comply with applicable state and local laws. Lessees must vacate within the designated timeframe, and legal action may be taken for non-compliance.

In cases of falsified reservations, unauthorized occupancy, or illegal activity, the Lessee will be immediately evicted, and all paid rent and security deposits will be forfeited. Payment handling related to termination or eviction (including security deposit settlement) will follow the Lease Agreement and Platform policies. Refunds or partial refunds for justified reasons will be determined by agreement between the Lessor and Lessee or by Platform mediation.

9. Hazardous Practices

The Lessee shall not use open flames, such as candles, on balconies or indoors, nor tamper with or disable smoke detectors. Bringing pets without prior authorization is prohibited.

10. Cleaning and Utilities

Daily housekeeping services are not provided. All items supplied with the property must remain on the premises. Additional cleaning charges may apply for excessive trash, pet waste, or pet hair removal. No compensation is provided for temporary interruptions of electricity, gas, water, cable, or telephone services.

11. Amenities and Parking

The Lessee assumes all risks when using pools, patios, decks, or other amenities and is responsible for the safety of all occupants and guests. Parking of boats, RVs, trailers, or other recreational vehicles is prohibited unless approved by the Host.

12. Liability

The Platform, the Lessor, and the Lessor’s Agent are not responsible for any loss, damage, injury, or inconvenience caused by property defects, weather, natural disasters, or other circumstances beyond their control.

13. Payment Authorization

The Lessee shall pay all reservation and rental-related charges via credit card or U.S. ACH account. The Lessor or Platform retains the right to charge or authorize charges on the payment method for up to 120 days after check-out.

14. Miscellaneous / Dispute Resolution

In the event of a dispute between the Lessor and Lessee, the parties must first attempt to reach an agreement. If no resolution is achieved, the Platform will assist as a mediator, and both parties are required to respect the Platform’s mediation outcome.

However, the Platform, as an intermediary, shall not be a party to any lease-related disputes or litigation. If either party disagrees with the Platform’s mediation result, the dispute may be resolved through legal proceedings under the laws of the state where the property is located. The prevailing party in any legal dispute is entitled to recover court costs and reasonable attorney fees.

Last Updated: January 21st, 2026