Signing a lease checklist
Committing to a living arrangement is a major decision – one for which you need to be prepared and
there’s a lot to consider when signing a lease.
HERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING TO LEASE:
– Read and understand the terms of the lease. Make sure you understand all of the terms, and
that you are signing a binding contract. Get help with any terms you don’t understand. Like
any contract, it is important to have an attorney review it before you sign. Whatever is written
in the lease is your commitment for the set period.
– Negotiate your lease. Most assume they can’t negotiate a lease, but some landlords may allow
for give-and-take on lease terms, including rent and any deposit required.
– Walk-thru the unit. Know what you’re getting into and what issues your potential living space
might have, making sure you and the landlord properly document and take pictures of any
problems or needed repairs before taking possession of the premises. It is important that you
have evidence of the condition of the premises and any problems before moving in. You will
need to be prepared for an inspection when you later move out and can be held liable for any
damages to the premises.
– Ensure all repairs are done. Ask the landlord to fi x any problems and make needed repairs
before taking possession if possible. It may be diffi cult to get them to make repairs or fi x
problems later.
– Consider getting renters insurance. Renters insurance may be required by your landlord, but
even if it is not, having coverage can also protect your personal property against damage or loss.
– Understand the landlord’s responsibilities. Your landlord will likely be responsible for
upkeep and repairs at your property. The premises must be safe and habitable.
– Understand the tenant’s responsibilities. Your lease will have conditions on your responsibility
for upkeep and paying rent on time, as well as stipulations on pets, maximum residents,
alterations, subleasing, noise, and more.
– Understand your rights. Landlords are legally prohibited from discriminating against potential
renters based upon such factors as race, age, gender, religion, or disability. If you think you’ve
been discriminated against you have the right to seek legal counsel.
– Clarify how the lease can be terminated. You may need to move out before the end of your
lease. Make sure those terms are set out in the lease — and that you understand any potential
penalties. State laws can vary but generally, a landlord will have an obligation to seek to
mitigate or minimize the damages. The parties can seek to resolve the matter.
– Check the lease renewal terms. While some leases end after the twelve months of the lease
are up, other leases have a clause that automatically renews the lease unless you provide proper
notice of your intent to leave. Depending on the terms of the lease and laws of the state, it may
become month to month.
– Know your rights and how to seek a refund of your security deposit. Tenants have the right
to a security deposit refund within a certain period, but the terms of their lease and laws of the
state dictate how a request for return of the deposit must be made, the obligations of a landlord
if they don’t return all or part of the deposit, the deadlines of the parties, and what deductions
can be made to cover repairs or monies owed. Having access to an attorney is important to
know your rights and options if you encounter any problems.
– Understand other costs, not just rent. The right apartment is the one you can afford. You
should consider a budget that not only includes the monthly cost of rent, any deposits, moving
expenses, and utilities.
– Have a roommate agreement. If you’re moving in with one or more people, have a written
agreement that outlines how expenses are split and how responsibilities and rights are shared
in the apartment to avoid future confl ict. Keep in mind that the landlord will not be bound by
such an agreement. It is important to understand your potential liability if you sign a lease and
others don’t pay their part or move out early. Have an attorney review any contract or lease
before you sign. Are you prepared to pay the entire amount if needed? It is also important to
understand the impact it can have on your credit if these obligations are not met.
– Have the proper information and documentation. During the process, you may need:
• Proof of employment – usually pay stubs and a W2 from a prior year or an employment
letter.
• Photo ID
• Banking info
– Be prepared with references. The landlord may want to run a credit check and may seek
contacts with employers or former landlords to ensure you’re a good candidate.
This is a general overview of the legal plan coverage available from Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. d/b/a LegalShield (“LegalShield”) for illustration purposes.
LegalShield provides access to legal services o ered by a network of provider law rms to LegalShield members through membership-based participation.
Neither LegalShield nor its o cers, employees, or sales associates directly or indirectly provide legal services, representation, or advice. See a legal plan
contract for speci c state of residence for complete terms, coverage, amounts, and conditions. is is meant to provide general information and is not
intended to provide legal advice. Please contact your provider law rm for any legal advice or assistance.