Questions to Ask Your Potential Landlord

During your apartment search, it is important to understand various insights into the property you are considering and the terms of it's lease. Below are questions to ask your potential landlord to understand more about the property's features, lease agreement stipulations, and the overall rental experience you can anticipate.

General Questions

• What type of heat does the apartment or house have (gas or electric)? Who pays for the heat and what is the average cost? Who controls the thermostat?
• Is the apartment air-conditioned?
• Who pays for the utilities? Sewage? Garbage? Telephone? Cable? Internet?
• Can pictures and nails be put on/in the walls without penalty or charge?
• Are curtain rods and blinds included?6. Is there a limit to the amount of occupants per apartment or house?
• Are pets or children allowed? Are there additional charges for them?
• Are there restrictions regarding guests, parties, etc.?
• Where can a tenant and guests park?
• When is the start of the lease? When is the end?
• What are the requirements for a full refund of a security deposit?
• Who can I call if there is a problem with the refrigerator, stove, etc. that is provided?
• Who should be called in an emergency?
• What should be done when a key is lost?
• Where is mail delivered to and where will packages be stored?
• Who will clear snow from pathways and parking lot in the winter?
• Can you paint the walls?

What to Know About the Facility

• Note the cleanliness of the building and rooms.
• Are the appliances gas or electric?
• Are the appliances in good condition?
• Is there sufficient lighting and do the light fixtures work?
• Are there enough electrical outlets and phone jacks?
• Does the toilet function properly?
• Are there leaks or drips in the ceiling, toilet or sinks?
• Do the hot and cold functions of water faucets work properly?
• Are there any signs of water damage anywhere?
• Is there sufficient space in the closet and bedrooms?
• Is there storage space available in the building or nearby?
• Where are the trash disposal and recycling bins located?
• How close are grocery stores, shops, restaurants and campus?

Safety and Security

• Are the entrance doors sturdy and locked?
• Is there a private mailbox for each apartment?
• Is exterior lighting sufficient?
• Is there a security system in the building?
• Is there a fire escape? Where is the nearest emergency exit?
• Is emergency lighting provided in the case of a power outage?
• Are the hallways well lit?
• Are there fire extinguishers available?
• Are there handrails for all stairs?
• Is the apartment door in good condition? Is there a deadbolt lock and/or security chain?
• Are there smoke detectors in each apartment?
• Are the windows in good condition? Do they have screens? Do they lock?
• Does each bedroom have at least one window?
• Is renter’s insurance provided, required, or available?

Suggested Questions Checklist

Additionally, below is a helpful checklist of questions you should ask the landlord or property manager when considering a new apartment. You can also click here to learn more about what questions to ask before signing a lease.

(Click to enlarge/download)