Why is an oral lease generally not enforceable?

An oral lease is generally not enforceable primarily because it violates the Statute of Frauds. This legal doctrine requires certain types of contracts, including leases that are longer than one year, to be in writing and signed by the parties involved in order to be enforceable in court. The purpose of this requirement is to prevent misunderstandings and fraudulent claims by ensuring there is clear written evidence of the terms agreed upon by the parties. Since an oral lease lacks this written documentation, it does not meet the legal standards set by the Statute of Frauds, making it unenforceable.

The concepts of mutual consent, public policy, and the presence of unspoken terms do not specifically address the foundation for the unenforceability of an oral lease as directly as the Statute of Frauds does. The focus of this law is on the necessity for a written agreement in particular situations to protect the interests of both parties.