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Things I should ask for when looking to rent?
Blake T
Do you have enemies then?Good. That means you’ve stood up for something, sometime in your life.Registered User regular
Do you have enemies then?Good. That means you’ve stood up for something, sometime in your life.Registered User regular
I'm about to go to my first home inspection today and don't want to look like a twat. Now they tell you all the basic stuffs such as rooms bathrooms, carparks, pets and how much I need to pay in total to move in but what else should I ask/look for when I'm viewing the property?
Blake T on
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Check the appliances: Turn the stove on, run the microwave.
If it has a chimney, ask if they have a chimney cleaning service.
Ask if the neighborhood has any sort of security patrol.
If you're in an area that gets snow, ask about snow shoveling service. If you're in a hot area, ask about the Air Conditioner.
Make sure everything that is included runs correctly. Take something small to test outlets, and check all of the light switches. Check windows and doors for drafts.
Most importantly, make sure that everything they tell you is included in your documentation. If it says in your lease that they're required to do something, you can force them to do it. If it doesn't say anything in your lease, you're screwed.
Length of lease
Deposit/do you get it back/how it is applied
Utilities included/some companies offer a discount on a deposit if the complex or leaser sends in a request to have it turned on in your name, this is rare though
If utilities aren't included, go to the local companies first and see how much it will cost you to get everything turned on. If you haven't ever had utilities in your name and don't have any credit you may have to pay a large deposit.
For example: I had to pay a $375 deposit just to get my electricity turned on, a $75 deposit to get water turned on and get garbage service, and $125 to get my phone turned on at my first place. This factoring in with my deposit and first month's rent at my new place, I had to wait another month.
When is the walkthrough covered?
You should take pictures of your place before you move in so your landlord can't try to make you pay for repairs that were needed before you moved in. Get these dated and include it in your walkthrough when your landlord signs.
Are there any stipulations on furniture? For example, I was not allowed to have a waterbed or speakers over a certain size or wattage. Weird, but I had to get new stuff before I could move in.
It's pretty simple, but read the lease many, many times and if you have time, get someone more experienced (like a parent) to read it for you.
Excellent advice. If you don't know anyone experienced, just get someone else to read it. A new set of eyes might come up with some points you missed.