Apartment Basics

Now this is for those of you who are looking at getting an apartment. Getting your own space and all those extra fees. Goodness, it feels like a nightmare just writing about it. For the sake of both me and you, the reader, let’s discuss the basics.

First, touring potential apartments. When looking at open apartments, it is important to go to that location. I recommend visiting with a friend or family member. Talk to the landlord, have a list of questions ready.

Here is a good place to start:

• What are the utilities here? What is the laundry like?

• Are there amenities? Is there an amenities fee? Can I opt out of it?

• What does the basement look like/is there a basement?

• What are the buildings security measures? How does mail get into the building? Are packages protected somehow?

• Are the walls thin? Are there noise complaints?

• What is the demographic of residents in the building? Is it mostly elderly residents or college kids or families?

• Where does the garbage go? Are there any recycling policies?

• Are there different options to pay rent?

• What kind of fuse boxes does the building have? Also check the outlets when you ask. Note if they are painted over or have burn marks on them. Consider asking if there have been issues with the electric recently.

• What are the rules on pets, can I have any?

• What is heating and AC like in the building? What kind of heating and AC is it?

• Parking. If you have a car ask where you can park.

• Ask about the plumbing. Have the pipes been worked on recently? Have there been any plumbing issues in the past? What is the water pressure like? Try out every tap, every shower and toilet. How long does it take for the water to get warm?

• What things will I be responsible for replacing/fixing? Who do I call for repairs? Am I allowed to paint or alter anything permanent? Is there upkeep I can do to lower the rent? Is there regular pest control? Is there any additional storage?

• Those are all grouped together for convenience. You have probably heard about the ‘landlord special’ of temporary quick fixes to problems. Combining all of these questions will allow you to get an idea for how the building responds to problems.

• When can I move in? Is there a preference towards people who can move in a certain time frame? This is helpful if you are looking at multiple places. Some landlords will give you a better deal if you can move in sooner. Ask if there is anything else they prioritize about applicants.

ALWAYS ALWAYS ASK the following from the landlord:

• When and for what reason are people allowed to enter (landlord and maintenance people)?

• Can the landlord make changes to my apartment without my approval? What kind?

• What are the options for breaking my lease? Is there a way to break it early in case of emergencies? Can I sublet temporarily?

• Do I need renter’s insurance? Is the property responsible for any crimes that occur? If they don’t claim any responsibility, make sure you get renter’s insurance.

• Is there a policy on rent increases?

• Are utilities paid separately or in addition to rent?

Now you have some research to do. Every state and city have laws on renting. You want to know what the laws on renting increases are. Look into street parking rules. Make sure you check if there are any renter protections written into the state’s laws.

If you are handed a leasing agreement then you need to READ THE ENTIRE THING. Make a copy and annotate it. Keep that copy somewhere. There are endless weird things that can be included in your leasing agreement.

Now if all this looks good, go ahead and sign that lease. Move in at the agreed upon date. Below is a list of items that are good to have for apartment life. I am leaving a lot off because some apartments come with furniture. Others don’t. You might also already have all the kitchen essentials, everyone needs different things for cooking.

As soon as you move in, enjoy your space.