What to check before signing a lease

Teach: What to check before signing a lease

What to say

Before signing a first apartment lease with roommates, check the total rent and whether each of you is liable for all of it, the deposit and the move-in inspection, the break and renewal terms, who pays which utilities, and whether renters insurance is required. Photograph every room at move-in with a written list of damage, and keep a signed copy of everything.

What to show, in order

1. Ask for the lease a day or two before you sign, and read every page, including the attachments.
2. Check whether roommates sign one lease together; if so, each of you can usually be held responsible for the whole rent, depending on your state and the lease wording; a tenant rights group can tell you.
3. Note the rent, due date, grace period and late fees, and which utilities and services you pay.
4. Read how the deposit is held and returned, and what counts as damage beyond normal wear.
5. Read the early termination and subletting rules, and the renewal notice deadline.
6. Check whether renters insurance is required, and get a policy either way to cover your belongings.
7. Walk the unit at move-in with the landlord or alone, photograph every wall, floor and appliance, and send the dated list in writing.
8. Keep the signed lease, receipts and all messages together in one folder.

When to stop and call a professional

• A clause seems to waive repairs, deposit protections or notice before entry: ask a local tenant rights group or a lawyer whether it is enforceable where you live.
• The landlord refuses to repair something that affects safety, such as heat, water or locks.
• You receive an eviction notice or a demand you do not understand.

The check question

Ask: You and two roommates sign one lease. One moves out without paying. What is the likely result? Answer: The landlord can seek the whole rent from any of you

From EveryManSkills. General information, not professional advice.