What is the requirement for leases longer than one year?

For leases that extend beyond one year, the requirement is that they must be in writing and signed by the lessor. This legal stipulation helps to provide clarity and enforceability in the leasing agreement, ensuring that both parties have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations. Having a written document is crucial for avoiding disputes, as it outlines the terms agreed upon by the lessor and lessee.

Witnesses can further strengthen the validity of the lease, although it is the written form and the lessor's signature that are primarily required. This requirement is based on the Statute of Frauds, which mandates that certain types of contracts, including those related to real estate, be in writing to be enforceable in a court of law. Such provisions safeguard both parties involved by creating a formal record of the agreement, which is vital for legal purposes.

In contrast, verbal agreements are typically insufficient for leases of this length because they are harder to prove and can lead to misunderstandings. Additionally, while leases do not necessarily require recording with the government, recording can provide a public notice of the lease, which can be beneficial but is not mandated. Government approval is typically not a requirement for leases, making these other choices less applicable to this situation.