Tenancy without a formal, written agreement establishes certain protections for the occupant. This arrangement, often referred to as a tenancy-at-will or a month-to-month tenancy, implies an understanding that the property is occupied with the landlord’s consent, even in the absence of a lease document outlining specific terms. For example, a person moving into a relative’s property and paying rent regularly, without signing a lease, operates under this type of tenancy.
The importance of understanding these rights lies in ensuring fair housing practices and preventing exploitation. Historically, unwritten agreements often left tenants vulnerable. Modern laws aim to balance the interests of both property owners and occupants, establishing a framework for reasonable notice periods before eviction and mandating habitable living conditions. This legal structure offers a baseline of security for those residing in properties without a fixed-term lease.