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What questions should I ask a landlord or rental agent before renting off-campus?
Leases
- What does the security deposit cover? How much is the security deposit? Is it refundable when my lease concludes?
- Does your property require an application fee or separate damage deposit fee? Will either of these be applied toward the first month’s rent?
- How long is the lease? What is the start date? End date?
- What is the penalty for terminating the lease early?
- Is the lease just with one tenant or does each person in the unit sign a lease?
- Do you take checks from all tenants in the unit or just one check from the group?
- When is rent due? Is there a late fee? If so, when is it applied?
- What forms of payment are accepted for rent?
- Can I bundle the fees together?
- Can I rent month to month? Is there an extra fee if I do this?
- Is a credit check required? Will I need someone to co-sign or a guarantor?
- When will I be expected to renew the lease?
- Is renters insurance required?
- Is subleasing allowed?
- Are there incentives for me if I can recommend other tenants to your property?
- Is there a policy on overnight guests? Where may they park?
- What is your pet policy? Is an extra fee associated?
Utilities
- What utilities are included in the cost of rent?
- For utilities which are not included in the cost of rent, is there a specific vendor that I should use on your property?
- What is typically included in monthly rent?
- What appliances are included and which would I have to provide on my own?
- If washers and dryers are not included, is there a hook up for a washer and dryer?
- Is a central laundry facility provided? If so, what is the cost per load of laundry?
- Where do I receive mail?
- Is there trash/recycling pickup?
Maintenance and Security
- Is the landlord responsible for maintenance repairs and costs?
- Is there a maintenance person on call 24/7?
- Do I need to be present for maintenance?
- What types of things are typically charged as damages when a tenant’s lease ends?
- Who is responsible for the grass cutting and snow removal?
- Do all bedrooms have smoke detectors? Are smoke detectors hard-wired or battery operated?
- Does the unit have a sprinkler system?
- How many parking spaces are available to the apartment, and is there a monthly charge?
- Are there security officers in the building/area?
- Where is the exterior lighting?
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