Many tenants never sign a lease when
they move into a dwelling. This does not mean you do not have as many of the same rights
as tenants who have leases. All tenants should have a lease. Prior to the date when the
lease is up, you should contact the landlord to sign a new lease. This will save you
unexpected surprises in large rent increases.
Read your lease before you sign it.
If there is wording and clauses which you are not comfortable with or do not understand,
either ask the landlord or someone you trust. Do not just agree to it or you may regret it
later. Make sure it states the amount of rent and when the lease begins and ends. If you
do not understand any section of a lease, do not hesitate to ask the landlord or others to
assist you in fully understanding a lease.
It is strongly recommended that you
enter into a lease agreement for your own protection. However, if you do not have a lease,
make sure the landlord gives you his name, address, and phone number. Make sure you know
when and where rent will be paid along with what utilities you are required to pay and
those the landlord will pay.
Ask that all items agreed on be in
writing. Anything that is in writing protects you, because the landlord can't deny
something in black and white and agreed on by both parties.
When oral agreements are made, try
to have a credible witness who could testify later concerning what was said.
If you see repairs in the apartment
that need to be done right away, make note of the problem, it is a good idea not to move
in until the repairs are made. In any case, before you move in, you and the landlord or
their representative should walk through the dwelling. If there are items which are in
need of attention, make a list of them room by room, you and the landlord sign the list,
and both you keep a copy.
Be careful if the landlord promises
to pay you to make needed repairs. Make sure that the amount you will pay is definite and
the agreement is in writing. It is strongly suggested not to make needed repairs to the
dwelling for the rent. The mind set is: if the unit is not in good condition before you
move in, why would it be any different after they are receiving your rent.
All tenants should acquire their own
renters insurance. The landlord generally has coverage on the building, but your personal
property is not covered.
