Don’t Sign Yet! Key Questions Every Renter Should Ask First

Signing a lease is often an exciting moment for renters. Still, signing a lease comes with real commitment. As a contract, a lease document lays out the agreed-upon terms with your new landlord. The lease also generally spells out what’s expected of you as a renter. For that reason, asking good questions before you sign helps you better understand the rental, avoid hidden costs, and feel secure in your choice. By putting in a bit more effort to ask smart questions before you sign, you can head off misunderstandings later.

What Expenses Am I Responsible For?

A great question to ask before signing a lease is which expenses, in addition to your rent payment, you will be responsible for paying. Make sure, in particular, to ask specific questions about who’s responsible for:

• Utility cost responsibilities
• Internet service availability
• Fees tied to parking
• Fees for pets
• Fees for amenities
• Miscellaneous recurring costs

In some cases, utilities and internet are bundled into the rent. That’s not the case every time, so it’s worth asking directly. Knowing your total expected monthly housing cost is critical.

Rent Payments: Know the Payment Process

You should have a clear understanding of how and when monthly rent payments are made. Because terms differ so much between landlords, don’t assume you already understand the process just because you’ve rented before. To fully understand the process, make sure to ask questions such as:

• Approved payment options
• Payment due dates
• Grace period policies
• Rules around late fees
• Options for paying online

It’s also important to know how the last month of rent is charged if you give notice and move out. Avoid assuming the deposit will cover it, since in most cases, it doesn’t. Asking these and similar questions helps you avoid confusion around payments.

Apartment Rental Checklist: Maintenance and Repairs

Before signing, another important area to ask about is property maintenance and repairs. With rental properties, landlords typically handle some maintenance and repair tasks while renters handle others. Before you rent a home or apartment, be sure you know exactly who handles what, and how the maintenance process will be carried out. Things to ask about include:

• The process for submitting maintenance requests
• Standard response turnaround times
• What happens during an emergency repair
• What minor upkeep falls to the resident

Knowing the maintenance process in advance ensures you understand your responsibilities and improves your overall rental experience.

Know Before You Sign: Are Pets Allowed?

Pet owners should dig into whether pets are allowed and, if so, what kinds of restrictions might be involved. The lease should spell these terms out clearly, so read carefully. Some landlords allow pets, though often with restrictions or limits on which types are permitted. Other landlords reject pets altogether. Make sure to ask about the following to clarify pet policies:

• Restrictions tied to breed or size
• Required pet deposits
• Extra rent for having a pet
• Pet amenities offered by the community

By researching pet policies and costs beforehand, you can be confident the property is the right choice for you.

Understand Community Policies Before Moving In

Along with reading your lease closely, make sure to ask about community rules that might affect your life as a resident. These policies are sometimes included in the lease, but not always. Be sure, then, to ask direct questions about:

• Rules regarding noise
• Policies around parking
• Rules regarding guests
• Use of common areas
• Access to community amenities and related expectations

Being aware of applicable community rules helps you feel comfortable and ease into your new home.

Confidence Comes from Preparation

You gain confidence in leasing a home by being prepared, reviewing your documents carefully, and asking clarifying questions. After you’ve signed, hold onto copies of everything in a safe place in case disputes or questions arise later. Making an informed choice helps you avoid unpleasant surprises and feel confident about your new home.

Are you ready to look for your next rental home? Contact us today, or check out Real Property Management Endeavor at Saint Louis to learn about available properties, leasing requirements, and the resources we provide to help renters make informed decisions every step of the way.