Questions To Ask Your Landlord Before Renting An Apartment
Apartment hunting can be fun and exciting, but you should always be mindful of important factors to consider before your move in date. It is a good idea to have a set of questions ready for your future landlord so that you can avoid any unpleasant surprises after you sign the lease. So, just because an apartment seems like the perfect place for you, you should be ready to ask these specific questions at the start of your apartment hunt to save yourself unnecessary worry in the future.
How Much Is The Rent?
The first and most obvious question that you should ask your landlord is about the cost of rent. Don’t assume that the rent price listed a few days ago remains the same, as apartment rent prices fluctuate even day-to-day. Get a firm monthly rental fee from the landlord so that you can budget accordingly. Also, it is a good idea to find out if there are any late fees and when your monthly rent will be due.
How Much Is The Security Deposit?
It is generally agreed upon that a new renter will pay a first and last month security deposit. Be on the lookout for ‘sketchy’ apartments and landlords who waive this security deposit, as this could be a red flag.
What Utilities Are Included In The Rent?
Utility fees can vary from apartment-to-apartment. While some tenants have their utilities included in their monthly rent, others can be responsible for paying for electricity or heating costs. Be sure to know what utilities you will be responsible for paying monthly.
Parking
In most cases, parking is an additional cost to the monthly price of rent. Find out if the landlord provides parking, and if not, find out where you can park your car daily. If there is no parking available on the building’s property, find out how much it will cost you to park on the street or in parking garages.
Pet Policy
First of all, ask the landlord if the building is pet-friendly. Get clarification on what kinds of pets are allowed as many landlords can have size and weight restrictions.
What Amenities Are Included?
Ask the landlord to show you all of the building’s amenities, whether it is a pool, gym, or library/recreation room. More amenities usually mean more in monthly rent, so think carefully about settling in for an apartment that takes into consideration the value of amenities.
Renter’s Insurance
Some landlords require proof of renter’s insurance before a tenant’s move in date to confirm the tenant has liability coverage. Renter’s insurance is a good idea even if not required by the landlord. You can save yourself a lot of worry and money with renter’s insurance if your belongings have been lost or damaged due to burglary, fires, flooding, or vandalism. The cost of renter's insurance is very affordable and it can give you much needed peace of mind should you encounter an emergency in your apartment.
Are There Any Income Requirements?
Before you apply, be sure to ask if there are any income requirements for tenants. Usually, landlords will require a proof of income from your employer.
What About Rent Increases?
If you are planning to live in your apartment for a longer period of time, it is best to avoid apartments that regularly raise their rent prices. This information is important when you are deciding on renewing your lease, so be sure to ask the landlord about rent increase as this might affect your decision.
What Changes Can I Make To My Apartment?
It is a good idea to ask your landlord beforehand about making any changes to your apartment. Iron out the details from your lease before painting a mural or changing the wall colour in your apartment.
What Is The Guest Policy?
While many landlords are lenintet when it comes to having visitors stay in an apartment, in some cases, landlords can request visitors to sign-in and stay for no longer than two weeks. It is best to bring up this question with your landlord before you sign your lease.
What Is The Neighbourhood Like?
Aside from asking your landlord about the general safety of the neighbourhood, it is good diligence to do some research on your own. Check out the hotspots and overall vibe of the neighbourhood, along with other considerations such as restaurants, entertainment venues, and nearby parks.
Do I Need A Cosigner?
If you are a first-time renter and don’t have a renter’s history, you may be required to cosign on your lease. For a landlord, a cosigner provides added security if you are unable to cover your rent for any reason.
If you are looking to rent an apartment and would like to know how we can best suit your insurance needs, please contact us today so that we can help you on your big move.