Signing the Lease - By: Bill Hinson

Questions you should ask before you sign your lease: o When is the rent due and what are the penalties for late payments?
o What is the length of the lease?
o Once the lease is over, am I required to renew for a whole year or on a month to month basis?
o Are there lease breaking fees or penalties?
o Is sub leasing allowed? o How much is the security deposit?
o What utilities are included in the rent and what is the average monthly cost for utilizes?
o Is parking included in the rent and what type of parking is it: street, garage, off street?
o Where are the smoke detectors and do they work?
o How is routine maintenance completed, is there 24 hour service?
o Do you require renter’s insurance?
o What are your pet policies and are there any extra fees associated?
o Am I allowed to paint, use nails to hand pictures?
o Are there noise restrictions?
o Am I allowed overnight guests?
o Is there a fee associated with getting a roommate at a later time?
o Laundry units, are they pay per load? If you have ever rented before, you may have experienced how difficult it is to get your entire security deposit back at the end of your contract. These tips will help make the process a little easier:
o Before you move in make a list and take pictures of any repairs or damages that need to be fixed
o Outline the exact condition of the apartment from cracks in the wall to scratches in the floor and stains on the carpet
o Give a written copy/ photographs to the landlord and keep a copy for yourself
o Ask for a receipt of the deposit and keep your canceled check, Don't pay in cash!
o Keep a record of paying your rent in full and on time every month to avoid having late fees deducted from your deposit
o Cleaning and repairing your apartment before you leave is essential
o Vandalism or malicious mischief o Theft
o Damage by glass or safety-glazing material that is part of a building
o Volcanic eruption
o Falling objects
o Weight of ice, snow, or sleet
o Water-related damage from home utilities
o Electrical surge damage
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