One of the best ways to protect your interests as a landlord is to have a written lease agreement. A properly constructed lease agreement can mean the difference between getting stuck with a problem tenant and having the legal recourse to protect your property. Check with an attorney who is well-versed in landlord/tenant law before finalizing such a lease agreement. A professional will be able to assist you in determining your legal rights in many different situations.

As you write your lease agreement, here are 10 tips to help you create an airtight document that will protect you and your property.

1. Know the law. Each state (and a number of cities) has different laws regarding the management of property, and rights of landlords and tenants. Familiarize yourself with these laws before writing your lease agreement. This will assist you in knowing exactly what you can and cannot put into an agreement.

2. Make it clear. Confusing terms and a poorly written agreement can be misinterpreted, and may not hold up in court. Put your stipulations in easy-to-understand terminology, and explain anything that might be misconstrued.