When a lessee moves in and pays rent without signing a lease, what is the status of the lease?

When a lessee moves in and pays rent, even in the absence of a signed lease, a valid lease is established through the actions of both parties. This is grounded in the legal concept of a "tenancy at will" or an implied lease. By moving in and paying rent, the lessee has essentially indicated acceptance of the terms of tenancy, which are often implied based on previous interactions or standard rental practices.

In such scenarios, the lessee is granted the right to occupy the property, and the lessor is obligated to provide that occupancy. The lack of a written lease does not negate the existence of a lease agreement, as the exchange of rent for use of the property constitutes a contractual relationship.

While the other options may pose certain situations regarding leases or agreements, they do not reflect the reality that a lease can exist based solely on conduct and payment, establishing both parties' voluntary agreement to the rental arrangement.