Renting a Home

Tenant: Hello. I saw your ad for a house for rent. Is it still available?
Landlord: Yes, it is. Would you like to see it?

Tenant: Yes, please. How many bedrooms does it have?
Landlord: It has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Tenant: That’s good. How much is the rent per month?
Landlord: The rent is $2,800 per month, plus utilities.

Tenant: Is heating included?
Landlord: No, heating and electricity are extra.

Tenant: I see. Do I need to pay a deposit?
Landlord: Yes, one month’s rent as a security deposit.

Tenant: Okay. When can I move in?
Landlord: The house will be ready next week.

Tenant: Perfect. I’d like to rent it.
Landlord: Great. Let’s fill out the rental agreement.

When renting a home, asking the right questions can help ensure you understand the terms of the lease, the condition of the property, and any potential issues. Here’s a list of questions to ask before signing a rental agreement:

Lease Terms and Rent

What is the monthly rent, and when is it due?
Confirm the amount and due date for the rent payments.
Are there any additional fees or costs?
Ask about extra fees such as utilities, maintenance, or parking.
What is the length of the lease?
Find out the lease term and if there are options for renewal.
What is the policy for breaking the lease?
Understand the penalties or conditions for ending the lease early.
Is renters’ insurance required?
Check if you need to provide proof of renters’ insurance and what it should cover.

Property Condition

Can I inspect the property before signing the lease?
Schedule a walkthrough to check the property’s condition.
Are there any immediate repairs needed?
Ask if any repairs or maintenance are scheduled before you move in.
What is the policy on maintenance and repairs?
Find out how maintenance requests are handled and who is responsible for repairs.
How is the property maintained?
Inquire about regular maintenance, such as lawn care or cleaning of common areas.

Utilities and Services

Which utilities are included in the rent?
Determine which utilities (e.g., water, gas, electricity) are covered by the landlord.
Are there any specific service providers or restrictions?
Check if there are preferred or required providers for services like internet or cable.

Rules and Policies

What are the rules regarding pets?
Find out if pets are allowed and if there are any breed or size restrictions.
Are there any restrictions on guests or subletting?
Understand the policies on having guests or subletting the property.
What is the policy on decorating or making changes to the property?
Ask if you can paint, hang pictures, or make other modifications.

Security and Safety

What are the security features of the property?
Check for locks, alarms, and other security measures in place.
How do I handle emergency repairs or issues?
Find out the procedure for reporting and addressing emergency issues.

Parking and Access

What are the parking arrangements?
Ask about parking availability and any associated costs or restrictions.
How do I access the property?
Inquire about keys, entry codes, or access cards.

Lease Agreement and Terms

Can I review a copy of the lease agreement before signing?
Request to read the lease terms in detail to ensure you understand all conditions.
What is the policy for renewing the lease?
Find out how lease renewal is handled and if there are any changes to terms or rent.

Asking these questions will help you get a clear picture of what to expect and ensure that you’re comfortable with the terms before committing to a rental.

Landlord

Landlord and Potential Tenant

Tenant: Hello. I’m interested in the apartment you have for rent. Is it still available?
Landlord: Yes, it is. Would you like to schedule a viewing?

Tenant: Yes, please. Can you tell me a little about it first?
Landlord: Of course. It’s a two-bedroom apartment with one bathroom. The rent is $1,400 a month.

Tenant: Are utilities included?
Landlord: Water is included, but electricity and internet are separate.

Tenant: Okay. Do you allow pets?
Landlord: Small pets are allowed with a deposit.

Tenant: That’s good. What documents do you need from me?
Landlord: I’ll need proof of income, references, and a security deposit equal to one month’s rent.

Tenant: I understand. When can I move in?
Landlord: The apartment will be ready on the first of next month.
Tenant: Perfect. I’d like to apply.

Landlord: Great. Let’s start the application process.

When a landlord is considering renting to you, they will likely ask questions to assess your suitability as a tenant. Here are some common questions a landlord might ask:

Personal and Employment Information

What is your full name and current address?
Basic information to confirm your identity and current residence.
What is your current employment status and income?
To verify your ability to pay rent, landlords may ask for details about your job and income.
Can you provide recent pay stubs or proof of income?
Landlords often request documentation to confirm your financial stability.
Have you ever been evicted from a previous rental?
To assess your rental history and any past issues with tenancy.
Do you have any references from previous landlords?
Contact information for past landlords can provide insight into your rental history and behavior.

Rental History

How long have you lived at your current address?
To understand your stability and rental history.
Why are you moving from your current residence?
To gauge your reasons for relocating and ensure there are no red flags.
Have you ever broken a lease?
To check if you have a history of breaking leases and if there were any issues.

Financial Stability

What is your credit score?
To assess your financial reliability and how well you manage your finances.
Do you have any outstanding debts or loans?
To understand your financial obligations and stability.
Can you provide a security deposit?
To ensure you can cover the initial costs of moving in.

Lifestyle and Occupancy

How many people will be living in the property?
To ensure the property can accommodate all occupants and complies with lease terms.
Do you have any pets?
To determine if you comply with the property’s pet policy.
Do you smoke?
To ensure you adhere to any smoking policies in the rental property.
What is your typical daily schedule?
To understand your lifestyle and how it may affect the property or neighbors.

Lease Agreement and Rules

Have you reviewed the lease agreement?
To confirm you understand and agree to the terms of the lease.
Do you have any questions about the lease or property?
To address any concerns or clarifications you might need before moving in.
Are you comfortable with the lease duration and terms?
To ensure you’re aware of and agree to the length of the lease and other conditions.

These questions help landlords assess your suitability as a tenant and ensure you meet their requirements for renting their property.