Questions to Ask Your Landlord Before Moving In

Renting a property from someone could be a great option if you don't have the finance and credit to purchase your own home but it comes with limitations and issues that you may not anticipate. Before signing a rental contract, you should definitely read the contract thoroughly. If it's too detailed and complicated for you to understand, have a friend in the legal business take a look at it. Once you have taken care of that, you NEED to ask your landlord as many questions as possible to ensure that you know exactly what you are getting into. This is a list of some questions that you may ask.

1. Can I paint the house?

2. Am I able to move in people after I have signed the lease?

3. Am I allowed to hang paintings, etc. on the wall?

4. Can I have pets?

5. What is included in my rent (utilities, etc.)?

6. What maintenance am I responsible for?

7. If plumbing is necessary, whose responsibility is that?

8. How often will you be replacing appliances?

9. Will you make expected/unexpected house visits?

10. What kind of security is in the house?

11. How much is the late fee?

12. How much does it cost to break the lease?

13. Can I renew my contract?

14. Will I be able to rent month to month after my lease is done?

These are some questions that can be asked to ensure you make the right choice for you. Still, there are things that you can find out for yourself without asking once you visit the property. These are things to check before moving in .

1. Make sure all doors lock

2. Make sure there are locks on the bedroom doors

3. Check the air condition and heat

4. Make sure all vents work

5. Turn on lights to see if there are any needing replacement

6. Check the ceiling fans (if any)

7. Check to see if the windows open

8. Make sure the floors do not creak

9. Look for carpet stains and broken tiles

10. Check the water pressure

11. Turn on appliances to make sure they work properly

12. Search for cracks in the walls

13. Search for holes in the ceiling, etc

14. Check outlets to make sure they work

Make sure to take accurate notes of the conditions of everything in the house and mention it to the landlord. You don't want to be charged for issues that existed before you move in.