Apartment Leases: 11 Questions to Ask Before You Sign

By Miranda Darling

So you found your perfect place and you’re ready to move in? There is only one long legal document keeping you from your dream apartment.

Signing your very first apartment lease can be scary. An apartment lease is a legally binding agreement in which you agree to pay rent, usually monthly, to a landlord in exchange for the right to use a property. An apartment lease typically lasts 12 months. You will want to get this information for every apartment you are vetting. This list will ensure you are fully prepared to take the plunge.

1. How much is the rent and what is the preferred payment method?

You will be legally obligated to pay this rent amount each month. Credit card users beware: some landlords will only accept paper checks. If you are moving in with a roommate, ask if you can pay separately. If not, you may want to set up a Venmo account to easily transfer funds between your roommate(s) and yourself.

2. Does the rent include all utilities?

If not, what utilities are you responsible for (electricity, water, internet, garbage, etc.)? Ask for the contact information of local utility companies so you can easily set up your electricity, water, cable, etc.

3. Are there laundry facilities on site?

If the laundry facilities are in the building, ask if it is coin operated or if you will need to be issued a laundry card. If you have to haul your clothes to a Laundromat, ask how close it is.

4. What is the protocol for maintenance issues?

If something breaks, do you call the landlord, a maintenance worker, submit an online claim, or is there a form to fill out? Make sure you get the contact information and/or form well in advance of any emergencies.

5. Is a parking pass provided?

If not, be sure to find out how much parking costs, how long the pass is for, where you get a pass, and the protocol for visitor parking.

6. How much is the security deposit, and under what grounds will it be kept?

The security deposit is usually equal to one month’s rent. If the apartment is damaged in any way, the landlord has the right to subtract the repair expense from your security deposit. Ask if you are allowed to mount shelves or hang posters. Some landlords will also keep your deposit for cleaning expenses when you move out.

7. What day is rent due, and what are the fees if the rent payment is late?

No one likes to talk about this, but if you mail a check three days early and it takes five days to arrive, you may be hit with a late fee. Be sure to pay as much in advance as you can.

8. How long is the lease and what is your subletting policy?

Do not assume the lease is 12 months. Subletting refers to the practice of allowing someone else to occupy your apartment and pay the rent while you are away for an extended time, usually over the summer. Some landlords charge a subletting fee or ban it altogether. Beware: you will still be liable for the rent if the subletter fails to pay. If you do find yourself needing to sublet your apartment, be sure to post it on uCribs.

9. Do you offer a discount for paying rent in advance?

If you can get a $100 discount per month for paying in advance, and your lease is 12 months, you just saved $1200! It never hurts to ask!

10. Have the locks been changed and can you have spare key?

A spare key is essential, even for the most organized person. If they do not provide one, ask where one can be made. Many thieves will target college apartments during the holidays and breaks. Make sure you are protected.

11. What type of guarantee will you have to provide?

All leases will require you to guarantee payment for the full term of the lease. So, if you leave in month 6 of a 12-month contract, you will be responsible for the remaining 6 months, unless you get someone to sublet your place. If you’re living with roommates, it’s important to know if the guarantee is for just your portion, typically called by-the-bed lease, or for the entire unit, meaning you are responsible for your roommates’ portion jointly. You want to know if your roommate skips town, are you responsible for their portion of the rent? Finally, some leases will require a parental guarantee if you don’t qualify on your own.

In addition to asking these questions, be sure to read through the entire lease before you sign! A tour or showing of the apartment is another essential step to take. See our Apartment Showing Checklist for a guide on what to look out for during the showing.

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