When is a licensee required to distribute or sign a signed copy of a lease to a landlord?

The correct understanding in this context is that a licensee is required to provide a signed copy of a lease to a landlord upon the landlord's request. This reflects the principle that, although it is essential for landlords to receive documentation pertaining to their agreements, it is ultimately the landlord’s responsibility to initiate that request if they desire a copy.

Providing the signed lease upon request allows for an efficient workflow while ensuring that both parties are aware of the terms agreed upon. It emphasizes the importance of communication and transparency in landlord-tenant relationships and allows landlords to retain accurate records of their transactions.

The other choices do not capture the nuances of this process accurately. Providing a signed copy at the time of signing is not typically required since the lease is still being finalized, and distributing it once the lease is fully executed could undermine the intent to maintain open lines of communication. Finally, giving a lease copy at the conclusion of the rental period is irrelevant since the landlord would not likely need the lease until the period of occupancy begins.