Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a licensed attorney in Alaska for specific legal guidance.Â
Managing a property in Alaska demands clear, comprehensive agreements that protect everyone involved. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from what fields to include to the different laws and regulations to be aware of.
Looking to simplify your leasing process? Download our free Alaska lease agreement template at the top of this post to create stronger, clearer rental contracts for your residential properties.
What Is an Alaska Lease Agreement?
An Alaska lease agreement is a written, legally binding contract that outlines the terms and conditions of renting a residential property in the state. This document details everything from the rent amount and payment schedule to the rules on pets and repairs.
For property managers in Alaska, this agreement serves multiple functions. It documents responsibilities, sets clear expectations, and protects both landlords and tenants when conflicts arise. A properly drafted lease reduces misunderstandings and creates a more stable rental relationship.
Who Needs an Alaska Lease Agreement?
Anyone managing or renting a residential property in Alaska should use an Alaska lease agreement. State law requires written agreements for leases that last longer than one year and strongly encourages them for all rental situations.
Without a lease, landlords may struggle to enforce payment terms or address tenant violations. Tenants also benefit from knowing their rights and obligations upfront.
Key individuals who benefit from a lease agreement include:
- Property managers overseeing daily rental operations
- Landlords protecting their investment
- Tenants seeking transparency and protection
A clear, signed lease helps prevent disputes and supports a professional property management process.
Pro Tip: Buildium’s purpose-built leasing software can help you get even more efficient with your leasing process.
Types of Alaska Lease Agreements
Alaska landlords and property managers can use several types of lease agreements, depending on the situation:
- Fixed-Term Lease Agreement: Typically for fixed-term rentals, such as a one-year lease. Covers rent, maintenance, policies, and more
- Month-to-Month Lease Agreement: Automatically renews each month unless terminated with notice. Offers flexibility for both parties
- Sublease Agreement: Allows a tenant to rent the unit—or a portion of it—to someone else. Original tenant remains responsible under the lease
- Roommate Agreement: Ideal when multiple tenants share a unit. Covers responsibilities such as rent splits and cleaning duties
What Should an Alaska Lease Agreement Include?
To create a complete lease, be sure to include the following sections that outline responsibilities, financial details, and household rules.
Parties Involved
The lease must identify the parties involved, including the tenant, the landlord, and if applicable, the property management company. Include full contact information so everyone knows who to reach for questions, notices, or repairs.
Lease Duration Dates
Specify whether the rental is a short-term tenancy (such as month-to-month) or a long-term tenancy (such as a 12-month lease). Include:
- Lease start and end dates
- Rent amount and due date
- Payment methods (checks, online portals, etc.)
- Terms for rent increases and required notice periods
Rent and Security Deposit Information
Rent and deposit details form the financial core of the lease. Include:
- Rent amount
- Due date
- Accepted payment methods
- Any late fees and when they apply
For security deposits, Alaska law governs how much can be collected, how funds are held, and the timeframe for refunds (more on that in the next section). Make sure the lease includes all applicable terms.
Occupancy Limits
The lease should specify that only the listed tenants (and their children) may live in the unit. This helps control property use and prevents unauthorized residents from moving in.
Landlords have the right to enforce occupancy limits, and may begin eviction proceedings if tenants violate this rule.
Property Management Company & Tenant Responsibilities
Clarify who handles what in the rental:
Landlord or property manager responsibilities:Â
- Maintain habitable living conditions
- Ensure working utilities
- Keep common areas clean and safe
- Manage trash disposal
Tenant responsibilities:Â
- Operate appliances and plumbing responsibly
- Prevent excessive noise
- Keep the unit clean
- Report issues or damage in a timely manner
Include property-specific terms—such as snow removal or shared driveways—to avoid misunderstandings.
Pet Policies
If pets are allowed, explain:
- What types of pets are acceptable
- Limits on pet size or number of pets allowed
- Required clean-up responsibilities
- Who pays for pet damage
If pets aren’t allowed, include a no-pets policy to make the rules clear.
Alaska Lease Agreement Addenda and Disclosures
Alaska law requires certain disclosures to be included in rental agreements. These disclosures protect tenants and help landlords comply with legal requirements.
Note that this list is not exhaustive, so consult a legal professional if you’re unsure about what to include in your own agreements.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
For homes built before 1978, landlords must include a lead-based paint disclosure, provide an EPA-approved pamphlet, and share any known information about lead hazards.
This federal requirement helps prevent health issues and keeps lease agreements enforceable.
Landlord/Manager Identification
Under AS 34.03.080(a), landlords must disclose the name and address of the person managing the premises and the property owner or their agent. This information must be given at or before the start of tenancy and kept up to date throughout.
Security Deposit Withholding Terms
According to AS 34.03.070(b–c), landlords must disclose when and why they may withhold part or all of the security deposit. Common reasons include unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear.
This disclosure is typically included in the lease agreement itself.
7+ Day Absence Clause
Under AS 34.03.150, tenants must notify landlords in advance of any absence longer than seven consecutive days. This requirement helps property managers identify abandonment or issues during extended vacancies.
Optional Disclosures & Addenda
While not required by law, these optional disclosures and addenda can limit liability and clarify tenant expectations:
- Asbestos
- Mold
- Bed bugs
- Smoking rules
- Medical marijuana use
- Plumbing/structural defects
- Non-refundable fees
- Pool safety
Including these add-ons can help prevent future conflicts.
Consequences for Not Including Mandatory Disclosures
Landlords who skip required disclosures risk:
- Legal penalties
- Tenant lawsuits
- Parts of the lease being ruled unenforceable
To avoid fines and disputes, always include federally and state-mandated language in your lease.
Alaska Lease Agreement Laws and Regulations
Knowing the laws behind your lease helps you manage rentals confidently and avoid legal missteps. Here are the key regulations every Alaska property manager should know. Again, it’s always recommended to speak with a local legal professional for the most complete and detailed list of regulations.
Security Deposits
Under AS 34.03.070(a), landlords may collect up to two months’ rent as a security deposit, unless rent is more than $2,000/month. Deposits must be held in a trust account.
Refunds are due:
- Within 14 days if the tenant gave proper notice and no deductions are made
- Within 30 days if deductions are taken or notice wasn’t provided
Any deductions must be itemized in writing and sent to the tenant’s last known address. If a landlord acts in bad faith, they may owe up to double the withheld amount.
Right of Entry
Under AS 34.03.140, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the unit, and only at reasonable times.
Permitted reasons include inspections, repairs, or showing the unit. In emergencies, or when a tenant has abandoned the unit under AS 34.03.230(b), landlords may enter without notice.
Grace Period
Alaska does not require a grace period for rent payments. If the lease says rent is due on the first, it’s late after that.
Landlords can issue a 7-day notice to quit or charge a late fee right after rent is missed, as long as the lease outlines that policy.
Late Fees
Alaska law doesn’t limit how much a landlord can charge in late fees, but the fee must be reasonable and clearly written in the lease. Excessive or punitive fees may not hold up in court.
Taking the Next Steps with Your Alaska Lease Agreement
A well-structured lease sets the tone for your entire rental relationship. For Alaska property managers, it helps you stay compliant, resolve issues faster, and protect your business.
Use our free Alaska lease agreement template (at the top of this post) to simplify your leasing process. To make things even easier, consider testing out Buildium’s comprehensive property management software. You can give it a try with a 14-day free trial or by signing up for a guided demo.
