A Positively Moving Experience
What to Ask Before Signing a Lease
A lease is more than just an agreement; it’s a legally binding contract. It’s smart to find out all the essential information regarding a home from your landlord in order to negotiate details before you sign any form of lease. Here’s some essential questions that you need to be asking your landlord before you sign any form of tenant agreement.
How long is the term of the lease?
Leases usually last a year, or sometimes half a year. Short term rental leases are usually 6 months or less, or on a month to month basis – it’s important to understand the length of time that your lease is, as you’re locked into it once you sign it. It’s also important to find out if there are any penalties for breaking your lease in extreme situations, like if you suddenly have to travel out of the country. Even if you may be able to work out an early-release clause to the contract, you may end up having to give up your security deposit.
Are there charges for utilities?
This varies from landlord to landlord – and includes water, heat, internet, cable, electricity, trash collection and a lot more. Make sure to ask about any additional fees for maintenance, storage, parking, or things like cleaners, electricians, or gardeners.
What’s the policy on pets?
If you have a pet or plan on getting one, make sure to ask your landlord about their pet policy. Some landlords allow all pets, others ask for a separate pet deposit or rent package. However, landlords are legally required to allow you to have a service animal as long as you have proof of documentation. For the most part, you don’t need to provide any proof of the pet’s certification, just that the pet fulfills your own health or wellness requirements. Landlords cannot charge rent for service animals.
When do I have to pay rent, and is there a preferred rent format?
You need to confirm when and how monthly payment needs to be submitted. It’s smart to ask your landlord when a payment is considered late and if there’s any charges for late payments. For most states, late fees don’t, or shouldn’t apply until the rent has been overdue for at least 3 days.
Can I get the security deposit back?
By their very nature, security deposits are refundable; however, landlords can withhold portions of the deposit if there are any damages incurred during tenancy.
Are there rules for apartment personalization?
If you want to paint your bedroom or install curtains, you need to ask your landlord what sort of customizations are considered okay. Make sure to get this information in writing. In most cases, you’re expected to leave apartments in the state that you got them once your lease is up.
Do the locks get changed?
Ask your landlord how frequently the locks to your building, apartment, or communal areas get changed – especially if there’s multiple units in the building.
Is there any construction planned for the building?
Ask to see if there’s going to be construction in or nearby the building -you may not want to move in if there’s going to be constant noise.
