How is a 'month-to-month lease' defined?

A month-to-month lease is defined as a rental agreement that automatically renews each month until either party decides to terminate it. This type of lease provides flexibility for both landlords and tenants. For tenants, it allows for the opportunity to move out with relatively short notice since there isn’t a long-term commitment. For landlords, it means they can adjust rental terms, such as the rent amount, with proper notice, giving them the ability to respond to market changes.

This automatic renewal feature is what primarily distinguishes a month-to-month lease from other types of leases, such as annual leases, which require a commitment for a specific term, usually one year. Additionally, a month-to-month lease typically requires both parties to provide notice (often 30 days) before vacating, which helps to maintain communication and stability.

The other options do not accurately capture the defining characteristics of a month-to-month lease, as they either describe different types of rental agreements or lack the element of automatic renewal after each month. Understanding the nature of a month-to-month lease is essential for both tenants and landlords, as it shapes their rights and responsibilities within the rental relationship.