Housing Search Tips & Checklist

Important Things to Remember

Check the reputation of your prospective landlord.
Begin your search using the widest criteria possible. Narrow your choices by adding more features.
When can you move in? When is the last day of occupancy? Check the calendar before you sign the lease to make sure you are not going to be in a bind for housing after your lease expires.
Have the Student Legal Aid Office review your lease before signing anything.
Arrange for telephone service and utilities to be turned on by the time you move in.
How many people can legally occupy the unit? How many legal bedrooms are there? How is the unit zoned?

Safety

How is the security in the building? Are there deadbolt locks and a peephole on the door? Do the windows all close and lock securely? How secure are the laundry, storage, and parking areas?
Be sure that there are two means of egress (exit) from every living area.
Check the fire safety of the unit (a smoke detector on every living floor is required by law).

Maintenance & Condition

To whom should maintenance requests be made? (Always make requests in writing and save a copy.)
In what condition are the appliances? (stove, refrigerator, oven, garbage disposal, dishwasher, air conditioning)
In what condition is the plumbing? Do showers leak, faucets drip, toilet get plugged often? Is the water pressure relatively steady? Does the hot water stay hot? (Ask to check these yourself.)
Do you ever see bugs or rodents?
Where is the trash picked up? Who takes it to the pick-up spot?
How loud/quiet is the building at night and weekends? How about the neighbors?
What parking is available? Is the lot cleared of snow in winter?
Is there additional storage available outside of the apartment?
Which furnishings come with the rental?
What, if any, work will be done to the rental before the next tenants move in? Ask the landlord to put any promises in writing before you sign the lease.
Is the heat gas or electric? (compare the cost) Does it work well? Where is the thermostat?

Extra Costs

Which utilities, if any, are included in the rent?
How much do the utilities cost on average each month?
Where are the nearest laundry facilities? If on the property, do they get crowded? Are they free or coin-operated?
Is there an application fee? Does it apply toward rent if you sign the lease?
Is there a cleaning fee? Can you earn it back by doing the cleaning yourself?
How much is the security deposit? Do you have the option of paying it in more than one payment?

Housing Search Checklist

Using a checklist like the one below to evaluate the properties you visit can help you stay organized during your apartment search. Be sure to take photos during each visit to ensure you remember the features of each location, especially if you're exploring multiple communities. This will assist you in making informed decisions and finding an apartment that best fits your needs.

(Click to enlarge/download)