Whether you’re looking for your first apartment or moving to a new city, there are many factors to keep in mind before signing a legally binding agreement. Because apartment ads usually only provide basic information, ask these 21 important questions before signing an apartment lease.
What Are the Lease Terms?
Apartment leases typically last for one year—however, apartment landlords may offer longer leases for lower monthly rents or shorter leases for a higher monthly rent. There may also be restrictions on items you can keep in your unit, like candles or grills. Remember that rental lease agreements are legally binding, lengthy, and full of legal jargon that may be difficult to understand—especially for first-time apartment renters. Be sure to read the contract in full and ask the property manager clarifying questions when necessary.
What If Someone Needs to Move In or Out During the Lease Term?
During your lease term, you may need to find a roommate or decide to move in with your partner. Whether you think this will affect you during the contracted term or not, it’s a good idea to ask about it. If a roommate is leaving and there’s no intention of replacing them, either they’re still responsible for their share of the rent or it must be split between you and any remaining roommates. If you’re adding a roommate to your lease during your term, the individual may need to be approved by the apartment before move-in. Some landlords don’t allow additional residents until the lease term is up and ready for renewal.
Can I Sublet My Apartment?
Some apartment landlords do allow tenants to sublease their apartment—this information can likely be found in your lease agreement. Rules on subletting can vary, and you may face complications from breaking a lease, such as early termination fees, needing to find a new tenant to take over your lease, or paying the remainder of your agreed-upon rent. If you foresee potentially needing to sublet your apartment, one of the best apartment questions to ask is about that policy.
What Happens If I Need to Break My Lease Early?
The terms for breaking an apartment lease can vary depending on your situation. Leaving your contract without prior notice can lead to lawsuits and steep fees, so it’s best to discuss with your landlord or apartment complex ahead of time what their early termination policy is. With a valid reason, like relocating for a job, you may be able to negotiate terms for ending your lease early. Additionally, there are some instances where you can legally break your lease without penalty, such as when your safety is at risk or if you are an active military member.
How Do I Break My Lease Due to Poor Living Conditions?
This is one of the only ways to break an apartment lease without incurring dues from breaking the legal contract. However, it’s only usable if you’re living in a unit genuinely unfit for human habitation due to the apartment management’s neglect. Unsuitable living conditions may include faulty electrical systems, cracked or crumbling entryway stairs, hidden or untreated black mold, pest infestations, or other unsanitary issues. Be sure to research your state’s tenant laws and how they define unsuitable living conditions. Additionally, seek legal counsel from a landlord-tenant attorney or a rental attorney.
How Much Notice Is Required to Move Out?
If you don’t plan to renew your lease at the end of your lease term, most apartments require a written termination notice in advance. Most landlords require a 30 or 60-day notice to allow them enough time to find a new tenant. If you don’t give the required notice, your lease could automatically renew, or you could lose your refundable security deposit.
How Does Renewing a Lease Work?
Because it’s a legal contract, you’ll need to consider what to do when your lease expires. Typically, a lease renewal notice is sent out 90 days before your lease term is up and provides directions for re-signing, including updated rental rates should you renew your lease. The lease renewal agreement may even include complimentary gifts or an offer to upgrade the unit upon re-signing. It’s best to read your initial lease terms a few months in advance, as the management company may forget to provide notice. It’s helpful to know your apartment’s renewal process when signing your lease so you can plan and avoid issues down the road.
Is Renters Insurance Required?
Many apartment communities and landlords require tenants to provide proof of renters insurance coverage before the lease can be finalized. One question to ask your property manager is how much coverage is needed for the policy. Even if renters insurance isn’t required, it may be worth the investment to protect your belongings and rental property from unforeseen events such as fires, flooding, or burglary.
How Are Emergency Repairs Handled?
Whether you’re renting from a commercial management team or a private landlord, you’ll want a solid understanding of what to do when an apartment emergency happens—and when you’re responsible for the costs. Ask the property manager about their emergency maintenance resources and policies before signing a lease. Many commercial apartments have an after-hours emergency line that you can call. However, you may be responsible for calling and paying your own plumber, electrician, or other professional if it’s outside of typical business hours or if you rent from a private landlord.
Can I Renovate My Apartment?
While you may want to paint the walls a different color, use stick-on contact paper on your countertops, or mount things on your walls, your landlord will ultimately have the last say in what you’re allowed to do. Adding a personal touch to your apartment can impact your security deposit, but in some cases, property managers allow it as long as you leave the unit in the same condition as it was upon move-in. If you’re not allowed to make unit renovations, there are renter-friendly decor options you can still use.
What Damages Are Tenants Responsible For?
Before renting an apartment, you should know when you’re considered responsible for damage—more specifically, you’ll need a clearer idea of what constitutes as damage versus natural wear-and-tear. Your lease has addenda for pests, pets, natural disasters, and more, which outline when you’re responsible for repair costs. If there’s significant damage in areas you’re responsible for—like scratched flooring, large stains, or water damage—you could fail your apartment inspection and face a fine or deduction from your security deposit. Ensure you’re comfortable with your apartment’s policy on temporary housing if your unit requires emergency construction. Damages from situations outside of your control, such as break-ins or severe weather destruction, may be covered by the apartment company or by your renters insurance policy.
Do I Get My Deposit Back When I Move Out?
The security deposit you used to reserve your unit until your lease signing is also a designated fund for any damages you may incur during your term. When you move out, ensure there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear so that you receive your security deposit back in full. Even if you receive a lease renewal notice, read your current apartment lease to see if getting your security deposit back is contingent on anything—like shampooing the carpet, fixing small nail holes, replacing drip pans, and more.
When Is Rent Due?
One of the key questions to ask when renting is when your apartment rent is due. Most rental agreements schedule rent to be paid the same day every month, in advance, or on the first day of the month. If you move in during the middle of the month, prorated rent may be charged at the time of move-in. As a renter, you’re responsible for making payments on time, though some apartment landlords offer tenants a missed or late payment grace period. However, you risk accruing late fees, charges, or even eviction if payment is not made within that time frame.
How Do I Pay Rent?
Apartment complexes typically offer tenants several ways to pay their rent—many have online portals but still accept payment via electronic check, money order, or cash. It’s even becoming more common for landlords to accept rent payments via apps like Zelle, PayPal, or Venmo. Make sure to speak with your apartment landlord to see what payment options are available.
What’s the Policy for Late Rent Payments?
When signing an apartment lease, a good question to ask your landlord or leasing agent is what the terms are for late rent payments. Some apartments may offer grace periods of three to five days, and sometimes longer, to allow tenants to pay rent. After that, a percentage of the rent is typically added as a late fee. Knowing this information ahead of time can help you avoid being penalized down the road.
Are Utilities Included in Rent?
While some apartments include all utilities in the rent, other places may charge extra for utilities such as gas, electricity, or trash. Though the cost is in addition to rent, some apartments have preferred providers for things like internet and cable, allowing you to take advantage of discounted rates. Speak with the management office or review your lease agreement before signing to note which utility bills you’re responsible for, and obtain the necessary apartment information for registering.
What Amenities Do Apartments Have—Or Need Additional Fees?
Apartment complexes can vary greatly in the amenities they offer their residents. Explore which important apartment amenities you have, such as whether you have an in-unit washer/dryer or if your floor or building has a communal pay-per-load laundry room. Knowing the amenities included will also inform how much extra you have to pay per month.
Where Should I Park?
Parking is a key apartment amenity that can vary widely between properties, so it’s important to discuss the details before signing a lease. Some communities offer unassigned spaces in nearby lots, with optional detached garages for rent. Others may feature attached garages or assigned spaces in covered, indoor, underground, or heated parking areas. Some are included with rent, while others require an additional fee. Ask which options are free or paid, whether parking must be arranged at the time of lease signing, and if it can be added later. Understanding your apartment parking options can help you budget for your monthly dues.
What Is the Apartment Guest Policy?
Whether you’re hosting out-of-town visitors or have friends over for a weekend stay, it’s important to understand your apartment’s guest policy before move-in. Most apartment complexes allow short-term guests, but may limit the length of stay, typically to a few consecutive nights or a maximum number of days per month. Longer stays may require written approval from management or even a background check. If your guest(s) park on-site, check if a guest parking permit is required or if there are designated visitor spots. Some communities may restrict the use of shared amenities by non-residents, so it’s a good idea to ask what your guests are allowed to access.
Is There a Pet Policy Lease Agreement?
Before moving with pets, check whether the management company allows or landlord will allow you to rent an apartment with pets—and if yours qualify. Clarify dues for apartment pets before signing, as well as what you’ll be responsible for each month. Most pet-friendly apartments require a non-refundable pet deposit (to be used after you move out), a one-time pet fee to approve your animal’s presence on the property, and monthly pet rent. You should also present your Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal paperwork so that you can be excused from paying certain dues, according to your state’s laws.
What Is the Neighborhood Like?
Your apartment’s surrounding area can impact everything from your daily commute to your quality of life, so it’s a good idea to ask about the neighborhood before signing a lease for an apartment. Leasing offices offer insight into nearby conveniences like grocery stores, public transportation, gyms, or coffee shops, especially if you’re new to the city. You may also want to ask about walkability, local parks, safety, and noise levels after-hours. Some communities are more residential and quiet, while others might be located near nightlife, busy intersections, or have noisy apartment neighbors. Asking for tips on the best local spots or any neighborhood quirks will help you settle in more quickly and feel at home.
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