Five Questions Every Renter Should Ask

When looking into a rental property, especially a home, there are some things that a new renter should ask. Most questions will be answered in the lease, but there are those that are not. Here are five questions to always ask a potential landlord.

1.) What is covered in the rental price?

I failed to ask this question once only to find out that I was paying for yard maintenance through my rent. For several months, I took care of the yard myself. The landlord was kind enough to reimburse me, but had I asked to begin with, I would not have had that problem.

2.) How do I pay the rent?

I have had landlords that want me to mail my rent to them, those that I take it to their home, and those that want to come pick it up themselves. I have found that each landlord is a little different in how they expect to receive their money.

3.) What do I do if there is a major problem that needs addressed immediately?

I have found that some landlords want to do major repairs themselves, whereas; others want the tenant to call a repair company or call one themselves. Sometimes, the landlord someone to fix it and have the bill sent to him, other times, you pay the bill and are reimbursed by the landlord.

4.) Can I do any painting or remodeling?

I had a few landlords that allowed me to paint and remodel, a few that bought supplies for me to do the work, and a few that didn't want me to do anything other than keep the place clean.

5.) What is allowed/not allowed on the property?

I have found that some landlords are okay with things such as a small swimming pool or swing-set, whereas; others prefer that nothing be put out that may damage the grass over time.

Overall, when looking into renting a home, you should always read and keep a copy of your lease. Most important questions will be answered there, but there will always be questions. Knowing what is included in the price, how and when to get ahold of your landlord, and what his expectations are for using the property will help you have a better relationship with your new landlord.