Landlord / Tenant refers to the relationship between (1) the owner or lessor (landlord) of residential or commercial real property known as the leased premises and (2) the occupant or lessee (the tenant) of the leased premises—often a home or office building or space. This relationship is defined by the (usually written) lease agreement signed by the landlord and tenant, and the laws governing the landlord / tenant relationship—which are usually located in a state’s statutes.

A residential or commercial lease of real property (real estate) allows the tenant or lessee to use the property and the improvements on the property—generally a building structure such as a home, office, store, or warehouse, for example—for a stated purpose (such as for a residential dwelling or the operation of a hair salon) and for a fixed period of time (the term of the lease), in exchange for the payment of rent.

Personal property—including automobiles, computers, heavy equipment, machines, home appliances, and other tangible, movable goods—may also be leased, but the parties to a lease of personal property (as opposed to real property) are not referred to as landlord and tenant, but as lessor and lessee.

In Alaska, the landlord-tenant relationship is governed by state statutes that outline the rights and responsibilities of both parties. These laws cover various aspects of the relationship, including but not limited to, lease agreements, security deposits, the right to quiet enjoyment, maintenance of the premises, and eviction procedures. Residential and commercial leases allow tenants to use the property for a specific purpose and duration, in return for rent. The lease agreement, which is typically in writing, details the terms of this arrangement, including the rent amount, lease term, and conditions for renewal or termination. While Alaska law provides a framework for these agreements, the specific terms can vary widely based on the individual lease. It's important to note that the leasing of personal property, such as vehicles or equipment, is also governed by state law, but the terms and legal designations differ from those of real property leases. In the case of personal property, the parties are referred to as lessor and lessee, and the regulations may differ from those applicable to real property.