Final answer:
The most protective type of lease for a tenant is B - A written lease with contractual tenancy, as it offers a fixed term and clear terms and conditions, providing security and legal protection for the tenant.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided, B - A written lease with contractual tenancy best protects the tenant. A written lease agreement typically sets forth the terms and conditions of the lease, such as rent amount, duration of the lease, and obligations of both parties.
This contractual agreement grants tenants a specific duration of tenancy, often called a fixed term, during which their right to occupy the property is legally protected. This is in contrast to tenancy at will or tenancy at sufferance, where less stability and fewer legal safeguards for the tenant exist.
A lease with contractual tenancy provides a fixed term, which usually cannot be altered without the consent of both parties, offering greater security and predictability for the tenant.
It frequently includes details on how and when the lease can be terminated, repairs and maintenance responsibilities, and other provisions that protect the interests of both the tenant and the landlord.
Conversely, an oral lease or leases with tenancy at will or at sufferance offer little security as they can be easily terminated or are inherently unstable due to the lack of formal agreement.