Renter Tools / What to Ask When Renting

What do you need to know before you rent. Below we tried to answer some of the frequently asked questions.

Ask how many bedrooms and baths.
Does the home offer separate living and dining areas?
Is there a garage? If so, attached/detached and how large?
Ask the owner/management company for a descriptions of the property.
Confirm all the claims made in the ad and clarify any sketchy statements.
Make sure the rent is what was advertised and that the availability date matches your schedule.
Ask what amount of deposit they are seeking.
Clarify if there are not any restrictions.
If you have any special needs, like a dog that will be moving in with you or an allergy to a certain type of carpet, be sure your requirements can be met.

Do all the appliances work? Check all the appliances and sinks to be sure they are working properly. Clarify with the landlord who is responsible for them.
Are there insects or rodents present? Again, ask the landlord who is responsible.
How much closet/storage space is there? Don’t underestimate how much space your belongings will take up.
Are the rooms big enough to fit your furniture? Take a tape measure with to be sure.
Make sure that the house will be cleaned and have the paint touched up before you move in.
How is the home heated and cooled? Check the units to see what shape they are in. Also
Ask what utilities are included in the rent and which ones you are responsible for.
What is the maintenance policy? What fixes are included in the rent and which ones are not. If there are repairs that are not included in the rent, find out if there is an extra charge and how much it is. There should be a prompt emergency contact and a non-emergency line as well.
What parking is available, is there a garage or only street parking? Are there any parking permits that are required in the neighborhood?

If anything was amiss during the walkthrough make sure this is noted or has been repaired.
Find out when is the rent due and what is the policy on late rent?
Are you required to hold renter’s insurance? If so, make sure to get a quote before committing yourself.
Is the neighborhood safe? Walk the neighborhood at night (with a friend) and observe your surroundings. Also check online to see if crime reports are available for your neighborhood.
When can you move in your belongings? Check the move in/move out dates printed on the lease.
Get a copy of the lease and keep it in a safe place.

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