State FRBO Guide
Rent Your Property in Delaware
Without a Property Manager
Delaware-specific lease requirements, security deposit rules, rent control status, and the tools you need to rent it yourself.
Delaware Rental Laws at a Glance
Delaware law (25 Del. C. § 5105) requires a written rental agreement for any tenancy. Oral leases are not recognized by Delaware courts.
Any lease term is valid. The lease must be in writing regardless of duration.
- ›Move-in inspection checklist
- ›Landlord address for notices
- ›Bed bug disclosure
- ›Security deposit terms
- ›Lead paint disclosure (pre-1978)
After the first year, deposit cannot exceed 1 month's rent. Must be returned within 20 days.
Delaware has no rent control laws at the state or local level.
Need a Delaware-specific lease? See attorney-reviewed lease forms ↓
Tools for Delaware FRBO Landlords
List your Delaware rental, screen tenants, get a state-specific lease, and insure it — no property manager required. (Affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you sign up, at no cost to you.)
List Your Rental
Post your rental to Zillow, Apartments.com, Rent.com, and dozens more from a single dashboard. Free for landlords — tenants pay the screening fee.
List for Free →Rent to travel nurses, relocating workers, and remote employees on 1–12 month leases. Higher nightly rates than traditional leases, lower turnover than Airbnb.
List on Furnished Finder →Tenant Screening & Leasing
Share a screening link with applicants and get a full TransUnion credit report, background check, and eviction history in minutes. Applicants pay — landlords screen for free.
Screen for Free →Run credit and background checks, send a state-specific lease for e-signature, and collect rent online with automatic reminders. Built for independent landlords.
Start Screening →Get a full credit report, criminal history, and eviction record. The applicant pays the $40 fee — you get the results instantly. No subscription required.
Run a Check →Legal & Lease Forms
Get a legally compliant lease agreement specific to your state. Also includes move-in inspection checklists, eviction notices, rent increase letters, and more.
Get Your Lease →Insurance
Standard homeowners insurance won't cover a rental. Steadily quotes landlord-specific policies online — covering lost rent, property damage, and liability.
Get a Quote →Moving Help for Tenants
Connect your new tenants with vetted local movers and labor-only help starting around $200. Faster move-ins mean fewer vacant days — share the link at lease signing.
Get Moving Quotes →Frequently Asked Questions — Delaware Landlords
Is a written lease required in Delaware?
Delaware law (25 Del. C. § 5105) requires a written rental agreement for any tenancy. Oral leases are not recognized by Delaware courts.
What is the security deposit limit in Delaware?
The limit is No limit (year 1) / 1 month (year 2+). After the first year, deposit cannot exceed 1 month's rent. Must be returned within 20 days.
Is there rent control in Delaware?
None. Delaware has no rent control laws at the state or local level.
What disclosures are required in Delaware lease agreements?
Required disclosures and clauses include: Move-in inspection checklist; Landlord address for notices; Bed bug disclosure; Security deposit terms; Lead paint disclosure (pre-1978).
What is the lease term limit in Delaware?
No statutory term limits. Any lease term is valid. The lease must be in writing regardless of duration.
This information is for general guidance only and may not reflect recent legislative changes. Not legal advice.
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