As you prepare to move into a new home, it’s important to remember that the experience can be unpredictable. The issues you encounter as a renter could range from minor inconveniences to major setbacks. However, by asking the right questions in advance, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering the worst-case scenarios.
The steps to sign a lease are the same whether you get an apartment or a house. But if you rent a house, you’ll have more questions. When you live in an apartment building, you usually don’t have to think about things like alarm systems, roof leaks, a backyard, or other small areas.
Lease Terms and Renewal
Most rented homes typically have one-year lease agreements, but there are exceptions. Find out from the leasing agent what kind of lease they want the new renter to sign. It could be for three months at a time, a year, and then month-to-month. Let’s go over the questions you must ask your leasing agent on lease:
- What is the duration of the lease term?
- What are the lease renewal options?
- Will there be any changes in rent if I renew the lease?
- Can the lease terms be modified upon renewal?
- Is there a lease renewal fee?
Utilities and Amenities
Get in touch with the management company and owner to find out what services are covered by your rent. Make it clear which services you will pay for and which the owner will handle. You might also want to get informed on things like parking, lawn care, storage, and access to the pool (if applicable). Find out what the monthly fees are that you are responsible for while you are touring the house.
Security and Safety
Safety and protection should be the most important things you look for in an apartment. Before signing a lease, it’s important to make sure you’re getting a safe place to live in. Ask if the building has smoke detectors, fire exit plans, cameras, theft alarms, and any other safety features that can help keep people safe.
Parking and Transportation
There are several questions you can ask regarding parking, such as:
- Is there a charge for parking?
- You get how many spaces?
- Is there visitor parking?
- Do you have a driveway for you, or is it parked on the street?
Pet Policies Lease
Pet regulations may vary across landlords and property management companies. The rental you’re thinking about moving in may or may not allow pets in the building. Ask these questions to find out what you need to know about:
- Are pets allowed in the rental property?
- If pets are allowed, are there any restrictions on the type, size, or number of pets?
- Is there an additional pet deposit or fee?
- What are the rules regarding pet behavior and cleanliness?
Termination and Moving Out
There are often early termination terms in normal lease agreements, but landlords usually have rules about them. Here are some questions we suggest you ask to learn about these rules.
- What are the options for terminating the lease early, if needed?
- Are there any fees associated with early termination or breaking the lease?
- What condition is the rental unit expected to be in upon move-out?
- How and when will the security deposit be returned?
Community and Neighbors
You can understand life in a certain building by learning about the people who live there and how they feel about it. Does the community put on events often? Is it quiet? Everyone has different tastes in communities, so make sure you know what kind of group you are joining.
You may also have to ask about the background checks performed on prospective tenants.
Don’t be scared to narrow your focus in this regard:
- Where does the background check begin, and how far back does it go?
- Is the screening process limited to offenses that have occurred in this state?
- What kinds of offenses would make it impossible for someone to rent a property in this area?
- Does the government do a background check on every member of the household?
The more questions, the better.
Closing Thoughts
Finding a rental home that suits your needs can certainly be easier if you know what you should ask a landlord before signing a lease. To avoid unnecessary problems with renting, it is always recommended that you do your homework and understand what you are getting into before signing a legally binding contract.
