What is the primary duty of a tenant under typical lease agreements?

The primary duty of a tenant under typical lease agreements is to maintain the premises. This duty encompasses keeping the rental property in a reasonable state of cleanliness and repair and ensuring that it is not damaged beyond normal wear and tear. Maintaining the premises is crucial for several reasons: it protects the landlord's investment, ensures the property remains habitable, and complies with local housing and safety codes.

While allowing landlord access at reasonable times is often included in a lease agreement, it is typically less emphasized as a primary duty because access should generally be provided under specific conditions, such as for repairs or inspections, rather than at any time. Paying for property improvements may be stipulated in certain agreements, but it is not a universal responsibility of tenants under standard leases. Similarly, subletting or renting the property to others is often regulated and may not be a tenant's right without landlord consent, making it a less appropriate choice for a primary duty.