How are 'fixtures' defined in lease agreements?

In lease agreements, fixtures are defined as items that are attached to the property and remain with the property after the lease ends. This definition is crucial because it highlights the legal distinction between personal property and real property. Fixtures are typically items that are permanently affixed to the property, such as built-in appliances, lighting fixtures, or flooring.

When a lease is established, the terms may clarify that these fixtures become part of the property itself, rather than remaining the personal property of the lessee. This means that once the lease terminates, the lessor retains ownership of the fixtures, which fundamentally affects how both parties consider the use of the property during the lease term.

Understanding this definition also helps clarify why other options don’t fit the legal framework surrounding lease agreements. For instance, items that can be removed by the lessee, decorative elements that can be changed, or assets owned independently by the lessee do not generally qualify as fixtures since they do not adhere to the property in a permanent way. Knowing the distinction reinforces the importance of properly defining what constitutes fixtures in lease contracts to ensure both lessor and lessee have aligned expectations.