Because a lease controls the legal rights of both tenant and landlord, it's important to make sure that yours is in order.

Here are five potential problems that could hamper your efforts to protect your hard-earned profits:

1. Lease agreements should be easy to distinguish from the pile of leasing forms and disclosures. Make sure it is clear where the lease document begins, what attachments it includes, and where it ends. That way, it is easy to prove what the tenant agreed to when they signed.

2. Any subsequent amendments or renewals should be attached to the original lease, or a copy of the original lease, for easy reference. Otherwise, it's surprisingly easy to lose track of the current terms.

3. Always give the tenant a copy of the lease, including all attachments and amendments. They are more likely to comply with the lease if they can refer back to its contents. Also, if they have a complaint, they can show the documents to their attorney. If everything is in order, the attorney may discourage any frivolous legal action.

4. Make sure all adult occupants are on the lease, so it is clear that the rules apply to everyone. Always have current contact information on all occupants in the event you need to take action. Evictions are hard enough without having to hire an investigator to find out who is living in your rental property.

5. Be careful about the lease language -- don't just throw in every provision imaginable. Illegal provisions can void the entire lease agreement. Always start with a strong, comprehensive lease agreement that is state-specific. Once you have the provisions you want, run it past an attorney to make sure it includes all of the protections you need.

If you would like to learn more about California apartment financing options for your business from Winston Rowe & Associates you can check them out online at http://www.winstonrowe.com