The minimum age requirement to legally enter into a lease agreement and occupy a rental property is typically 18 years of age in most jurisdictions. This age coincides with the age of majority, granting individuals the legal capacity to enter into contracts. For instance, a 17-year-old generally cannot be held legally responsible for the terms outlined in a lease, whereas an 18-year-old can.
Establishing a minimum age for tenancy protects both landlords and tenants. Landlords gain assurance that the individual signing the lease is legally accountable for rent payments and property upkeep. Conversely, young adults gain the right to legally enforce the terms of the lease agreement, ensuring their rights as tenants are protected. Historically, this age requirement evolved to align with broader legal frameworks defining adulthood and contractual capacity.