Renters, Here Are 5 Important Questions To Ask Before Signing a Lease

It is not recommended to assume that everything works perfectly in the rental unit. Check the unit and see if there are current damages. See if there are broken windows, squeaky floors and faulty door hinges. Test the faucets in the kitchen and the bathroom as well. Make sure that the water pressure is okay and check if the temperature of the water is too cold or too hot. Document everything; take photos and videos of the flaws you find.

Double check the walls as well. If they look old or are chipping, ask your landlord if you are allowed to customize. Examine the power outlets and see if they’re working fine. While you’re at it, check if the phone reception is okay. Be keen of small openings in walls and corners as these could be a breeding place for pests.Make a list of all the issues you’ve found. After your thorough inspection, inform your landlord about them.

One very important thing to consider before signing a lease is the expenses that would be charged to you. Ask your landlord about the fees that you will have to settle. Other than the rental fee, you might also have to prepare for additional charges like move-in costs and recurring fees for amenities, parking, storage, and utilities.

Also inquire about the guidelines for refundable fees like security deposits and non-refundable fees like late fees. Speaking of late fees, be knowledgeable about the rules regarding this, including the grace periods. While bringing this up might make your landlord think you have a habit of paying rent late, it is something that you still need to know.

Think about the accessibility of the place. Is it located near transportation hubs and business districts? Will it be greatly affecting your commute? If you have a car, how much will you have to spend on gas when trying to get from your place to another? Know where the nearest hospitals and malls are, too.

Other than the convenience, make a plan to say hi to your co-tenants before moving in. Some of them could be able to give you tips and recommendations. Ask them what it is like to live in the area. It would also be helpful to ask about things that may affect your stay, like neighbors who make excessive noise or tenants who take up others’ parking space.

Understand the limits for your guests and pets. Know if there are restrictions for the number of guests that you’re allowed to bring and how long they’re allowed to stay. Do they have to be registered before entering? Are they only allowed until a certain time? Seek for answers.

As for pets, there are lots of landlords who aren’t strict when it comes to pets. However, check if there are rules on bringing pets in your unit. Know what types of animals are allowed and if there are specific limits, like their weight. If you’re planning to take your pet with you, assure your landlord that you will have someone to look after your fur babies when you leave. You can also confirm if guests can bring their own pets, too.

The lease is not just a mere list of rules and regulations. It is a clear agreement between two parties, and it is important that everything on the lease is clear and clarified to you by your landlord. You must pay attention to the details written on it: from your duties as a tenant to the responsibilities of your landlord, to the termination policies and payments. Make sure to read your rental contract carefully and thoroughly because it will legally bind you and your landlord as long as you stay in his or her property.

One of the things to take note of are the termination policies and renewals; the lease must specifically indicate its expiration date and renewal options. The security deposit must also be included in the lease. Since it is refundable, the lease must state when and how you’ll get your money back. A word of advice: ask your landlord for a copy of your lease (if he or she doesn’t voluntarily give you one) before signing. Review the terms and conditions and raise concerns that you weren’t able to ask initially.

Having your own space not only means being free and independent, but fully responsible as well. As the old saying goes, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” Once you’ve answered these questions and are satisfied, go ahead and take the plunge!

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