Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease
Below is some information that Student Government put together for off campus housing.
Before signing a lease it is important that you inform yourself of the specifics of your lease, your rights, and responsibilities. Below we offer a selection of questions that will provide you with some of this important information.
- Rent
-How much?
-When is it due?
-What is the late fee policy?
-Can rent be paid individually among roommates?
-Do I get a storage area? - Deposit
-How much?
-What is it used for?
-How and when is it refunded? - Damages
-Who pays for breakage or other damages over and above normal wear and tear-individuals or occupants?
-What is the policy on maintenance of minor damages and major ones? - Subletting
-Is it permitted?
-What is the procedure (example: do I need to find the sub-letter?)? - Roommates
-Should all roommates sign the lease?
-Are all roommates responsible for only a portion of rent? If someone moves out, must the remaining roommates make up the difference? - Alterations
-Can I paint?
-Can I hang pictures on the wall (with what?)? - Laundry facilities
-Are they available?
-How much does it cost? - Noise restrictions
-What are restrictions for musical instruments, stereo, television? - Parking
-Is it available?
-Is there an additional cost? - Pets
-Are pets allowed; additional cost? - Utilities
-What are included in rent?
-How much is installation and will they have access?
-What are billing and payment procedures?
-Is the unit wired for cable? - Security
-How secure is the building?
-Are there security doors with deadbolts, peepholes?
-Do windows and doors close & lock?
-How secure are laundry, parking, and storage areas? - Inspections
-When can the landlord enter my unit?
-How much notice must be given? What, if any, work will be done before the next tenants move in?
