Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease

1. Can I have a written copy of the agreement?

This is an important document because it outlines the length of time, cost, and significant rules you and your landlord must follow. If a landlord suggests a “verbal agreement,” think of looking elsewhere! It is perfectly okay to ask for a copy of the agreement to look over before signing.

2. How much is rent, and when is it due?

Plan ahead to make sure you can actually afford to live somewhere before signing the agreement. Be sure to know the cost of a security deposit and include it in your budgeting!

3. How many tenants can live here?

Certain properties may not allow all your friends to live with you - plus city laws dictate the number of occupants a property can have. If you violate this, you might get in trouble with the city and lose your deposit!

4. Are utilities included?

This is a significant expense you will need to plan for! Water, gas, electricity, Internet, and trash are all external expenses that some landlords do not include in the price of rent. Be prepared to pay additional bills!

5. Can I have pets or guests?

Landlords can be very specific about pets, guests, and other issues. You want to start out on the same page rather than create problems later.

6. What appliances are included?

Most rental properties come with standard appliances like a refrigerator, stove, etc. However, many DO NOT have laundry machines or dryers - they may be listed with “laundry hook-ups,” but this means you have to supply the machine! Be sure you know ahead of time, or you’ll be looking for a Laundromat!

7. Who is in charge of maintenance? How do you handle repair requests and emergencies?

Typically, the resident is in charge of basic cleaning, but sometimes landlords might have other expectations for landscaping, snow removal, etc. If something does break, like the refrigerator, you want to know that the landlord will respond quickly. Some landlords will specifically ask that you do not fix appliances.

8. How will the landlord notify you if they need to enter the property?

Even though you are renting, you still have a right to your privacy! Clarify how much advance notice the landlord will provide before entering for a repair, etc. This should be clearly stated in the agreement!

9. Have the locks been changed since the last tenant?

Even though you are supposed to turn in the keys when you move out, it can be hard to know if there are any old keys floating around. It’s additional peace of mind to know you have the only key besides your landlord!

10. What else has been done to prepare the property since the last tenant?

Who knows what the last tenant did on the property? The landlord should provide a healthy place for you to live - so it’s worth asking this question! Some owners will prepare the unit with a variety of services, such as having carpets steam-cleaned, replacing lights, etc. Get this in writing so you can hold the landlord accountable!