rental agreements are usually set for a term of 30 months, however in some cases the length could be adjusted throughout the term, depending on individual agreements, and  provided that at least one month's notice is given - a penalty may be assessed.

to administer the contract the tenant needs to get it notarized at a cartório, a local notary office, where signatures are recorded and certified.

finally, most apartment rental agreements require some kind of guarantee and protection against unpaid rent and damages - there are a few options to consider in this case.

a cosigner or guarantor (fiador) is the typical requirement for anyone wishing to rent an apartment who cannot provide sufficient guarantees - the fiador needs to meet a set of stringent requirements and can be held responsible for unpaid rent, properly taxes, and damage to the unit.