Ask These Questions to the Potential Landlord or They Won’t Tell You
Walking through an apartment is like an interview. You have the opportunity to inspect the space while a supervisor or landlord can see if you appear to be a good tenant. And, just like in a job interview, it is very important to ask questions as you go through. There are definitely a few things that the landlord or manager probably doesn’t tell you, so be sure to ask about them before moving into a new apartment (and signing a new lease). Here are six things to think about when traveling through your next potential new home.
What fees do they charge and how will they be processed?
Before you start your search, it is important to know the legal implications of the landlord’s policies. For example, in California, homeowners cannot legally require a bond equal to more than two months’ rent, and deposits are always returned by law. The fees, including any pet deposits, are considered part of your security deposit, so make sure you know your rights as a renter and be prepared to inquire about their fees and policies.
Knowing the laws is also important when it comes to getting an apartment legal. Some homeowners create or advertise apartments that break the law. For example, in New York, if an apartment does not have a secondary exit, it cannot be legally rented out as a living space . Be sure to ask about exits, windows, and other security concerns.
How do they deal with renovations and pest control?
Your landlord is responsible for maintaining the habitability of your apartment. Beautification includes maintaining electrical functions, plumbing, heating and hot water, and more. Minor repairs due to wear and tear (such as a loose floorboard or a torn window partition) do not technically make the apartment uninhabitable, but are necessary in order for you to enjoy the space. Landlords usually have 30 days to fix cosmetic issues and three to seven days for major repairs (depending on your state and county). Ask the homeowner or superintendent about their procedures for cosmetic and more serious fixes.
It’s the same with pest control: the homeowner is responsible for keeping the space free of vermin. If the premises become contaminated due to your negligence, that’s another problem and the landlord could fine you . Ask about all aspects of their extermination policy.
How does management handle advance notice of maintenance?
Ask about their policy of giving advance notice when it comes to checks that will require them to enter your unit, as well as informing you of a power outage. Landlords often need to make maintenance or changes that can result in short water or gas interruptions. Ask the landlord how long it takes to notify the apartment for renovation. The last thing you need to do is have the water cut off unexpectedly or the landlord shows up without warning to rummage around your apartment.
Have there been any changes of owners lately?
If your building is run by a property management company, ask how long it has been running and whether the building has recently been sold or put up for sale, especially if you are looking for a multi-family home. My husband and I once rented the top floor of a house, but the owner decided to sell it the next year to retire in Florida. We liked the apartment very much, we would have stayed for another year; instead we had to move with difficulty. Be aware of the laws of your state and know your rights if property owners decide to sell the building or home you are renting.
What is their pet policy?
Some buildings or rental houses allow pets, but there are special rules for tenants with pets. Some require pets to be registered with the building, while others simply want to check pet vaccinations and health information for their records. The Humane Society notes, “Even if a homeowner advertises ‘no pets’ or has size or breed restrictions, some will make exceptions … It’s worth a friendly question over the phone or in person.” Even if you don’t have pets and are wondering if your neighbors have them, it’s a good idea to ask about their pet policy. And remember, even if the rental policy says that pets are not allowed, the landlord cannot legally refuse to accommodate service animals in the home.
What can they tell you about previous tenants?
You want to make sure you don’t inherit losses or concerns from previous tenants. Ask how long previous tenants have been on the premises and what (if any) problems they have had. Some homeowners will give their details as they care about space as much as you do. (Unlike when you buy a home, landlords are not required to report whether someone has died in the apartment or not .) Be sure to include in the apartment anything that may have been left behind by previous tenants, as well as any maintenance issues you have stain – you don’t want to be accused of causing damage by previous tenants.