6 Important Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease
Are There Any Changes That I am Allowed to Make?
Some landlords are pretty easy going when it comes to allowing tenants to add personal touches to their apartments. Sometimes being allowed to personalize the space also involves some work on the tenants end come to the end of their lease – for example, it is common to require that renters simply repaint the apartments back to the original colors when their leases are up. There are some landlords, however, who have very strict rules about what changes can and cannot be made to their apartments. If you are a tenant who likes to make a space a home, by personalizing it with things like paint, artwork and light fixtures, check with the landlord before you sign the lease to find out if your desired changes are acceptable.
Am I Able to Sublet Should the Situation Call for It?
If your job suddenly sends you across the country to work on a big project for an undetermined amount of time, you may need to have someone cover the rent for your apartment while you are gone. If there is even a possibility that you may need to be away from the apartment for an extended period of time, find out if you are allowed to bring in a sub letter or another roommate midway through your lease. Being able to do this saves you tons of money and keeps your lease going, providing your landlord with a steady income and you a place to return home to.
Is There a Deposit? If so, How Much Is It?
In addition to first and last month’s rent and the broker’s fee, you will most likely have to pay a security deposit. This deposit is the landlord’s insurance to cover things like damage the apartment may sustain during your tenancy. The amount of security required is determined by the landlord. Often landlords request first and last months rent, however, some landlords may require as little as a month’s rent or as many as six months’ rent as security.
How Are Repairs Handled?
If your apartment is flooded due to a major leak in an upstairs unit, make like a Ghost buster and figure out “who you gonna call.” Ask whether there’s a super who deals with the repairs or if the landlord functions as the repairman. You will want to find out how quickly things like repairs are dealt with before you sign anything.
What Exactly Is Included in the Rent?
Find out if utilities are included in the rent or if they will need to be paid separately. That awesome rental deal that you’ve found may come with the caveat that you must pay for every single utility, including water.
Am I Allowed a Pet?
One of the most frustrating situations for pet owners is finding out that the ideal apartment forbids animals. So make sure to find out whether your little buddy will be welcome before signing any papers.