A residential lease agreement in Wichita is a binding document between a landlord and a tenant. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions surrounding the use of a rental property in exchange for payment.
Residential Lease Agreement Requirements in Wichita
Wichita has no city-specific residential lease agreement requirements or disclosures. As such, landlords and tenants in Wichita follow Kansas requirements for lease agreements.
Landlord-Tenant Rights and Regulations in Wichita
When it comes to landlord-tenant rights, Wichita landlords should be aware of the following:
Landlord Retaliation Ordinance
On January 2nd, 2024, Wichita City Council passed an ordinance that prevents landlords from retaliating against tenants who express concerns related to housing conditions or participate in a tenant’s union. Now, Wichita landlords can be fined up to $2,500 for evicting a tenant who complained about poor living conditions.
Wichita Housing Authority Landlord Incentive Program
The goal of this housing program (WHALIP) is to encourage Wichita landlords to support the city’s affordable housing initiative. Landlords who lease to families and individuals receiving housing assistance will receive financial support from WHALIP, as well as additional funds to help cover any financial difficulties that may arise during the lease term.
Optional Lease Agreement Disclosures and Addendums in Wichita
While not mandatory, landlords can add specific disclosures and addendums to their leases. This helps outline the responsibilities of the tenant and can prevent future liability issues.
Crime and Drug-Free Addendum
Due to Wichita’s high crime rate, it would be in the landlord’s best interest to include an addendum stating that engaging in criminal activity, including drug-related activity, is prohibited on or near the property.
Mold Addendum
Wichita is known for its humid climate—which is why landlords may want to include a mold addendum in the lease agreement. This will prevent landlords from being liable for future mold-related damage.
Parking Rules Addendum
Since Wichita is primarily a driving city, landlords may want to include a parking addendum to clearly outline the building’s parking policy. This should include information on assigned parking spots, street parking rules, and any prohibited uses of the parking space.
Summary of Required Lease Disclosures for the State of
- Landlord’s Name and Address – Kansas leases must contain the name and address of the landlord or authorized agent.
- Move-In Checklist – Kansas landlords must provide a move-in checklist to inventory existing property damage when the tenant takes possession of the rental property.
- Lead-Based Paint – It is a federal law in the United States that any home built prior to 1978 must disclose the risks posed by lead-based paints.
Sources
- 1 Wichita Ordinance 52-325
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It shall be unlawful for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant if the following conditions are met…
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