It’s important you understand the terms of your lease because it’s legally binding. Before signing, you must research the neighborhood, talk with the landlord, or speak to other residents to ensure you’re comfortable with the apartment.
Before settling for a living space, it’s also important you ask the right questions because it might be difficult to break a lease once you sign it. Here is a list of questions you should ask.
1. How Long is the Lease?
A lease is frequently a year or six months at times. A short-term rental is usually six months or less or month-to-month.
It’s imperative you establish the duration of your term because you’ll be bound to that time frame after signing the lease.
You should also establish the penalties for breaking the lease in an extreme circumstance, for instance if you get a job across the country halfway into your agreement.
Bear in mind that you might end up forfeiting your security deposit in spite of negotiating an early-release clause. Furthermore, you might be liable for the outstanding rent.
2. Do You Allow Pets?
If you own a pet or intend to get one, always inquire about the pet policy beforehand. Landlords are frequently cautious about anything that could damage the building or unit.
In this case, the landlord might not welcome the idea of bringing a pet with you. However, some landlords permit all pets, demand a separate deposit, or “pet rent.”
On the other hand, service animals are different and landlords aren’t legally permitted to deny you such an animal provided you have documentation. In general, you don’t have to offer proof of the pet’s certification.
You simply need to prove that the pet is a medicinal prerequisite for you. While you can’t pay pet rent for service animals, you could be responsible for any damage to the apartment.
3. Can I Alter the Apartment?
Some property owners don’t mind if you paint the walls while others are likely to retain your security deposit if you nail a poster to the wall. If you plan to decorate your living space, ensure you double check the policy for altering the space.
If the property owner reveals that you can paint or make changes that are not in the lease, make sure you get everything in writing.
In most instances, you have to leave the apartment in its original state when your lease expires. Bear in mind that if you make some unapproved changes, the landlord could withhold a segment of your security deposit in order to restore the apartment.
4. What Utilities Should I Handle?
Some apartments incorporate utilities in the rent while others don’t. Therefore, make sure you identify those that you should handle independently, including internet, electricity, gas, and cable.
In this case, you’ll have to call every company and set up an account under your name. You should also determine whether the building has deals with any provider.
Internet and cable companies frequently make deals with property management firms. This means that the residents typically pay cheaper bills.
5. What Mode of Payment Do I Use in Paying Rent?
It’s important to establish how you’ll be paying rent because this factor differs across companies and property owners.
You might have to send a check to a specified address or drop it off in a box at the major office. Others may even let you make online payments. Make sure you make note of the ideal payment method for your new space.
6. Is the Deposit Refundable?
By law, security deposits are refundable. However, the property owner can withhold a portion of your deposit for incurred damages or if you violate the lease.
Finding the suitable rental is an important decision. A year is a long time to stay in a building with a run-down unit or unresponsive manager. Therefore, before you decide to commit to an apartment, it’s important you ask these questions.
For more information on what to ask the landlord before signing a rental lease, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a comment.