Questions You Should Ask Before Signing a Lease Agreement

Before you sign the lease on your new apartment, be sure you have the proper information. Read our article for some helpful questions to ask.

Signing a lease agreement is a major commitment, whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned pro. Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s important to ask the right questions and make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions of your lease. In this article, we’ll share 11 key questions to ask before signing a lease agreement, so you can make an informed decision and avoid any surprises down the road.

Related Read: Things to Know Before Renting an Apartment

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11 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease Agreement

1. What is the length of the lease agreement?

Knowing the length of the lease agreement will help you plan your future and ensure the rental meets your needs.

2. How much is the rent, and when is it due?

Understanding the rent amount and payment schedule will help you budget accordingly and avoid late fees.

3. Is there a security deposit, and how much is it?

Knowing the amount of the security deposit and any associated terms will help you plan your finances and understand your obligations as a tenant.

4. Are there any move-in specials or discounts available?

Asking about move-in specials or discounts can help you save money on the initial costs of renting.

5. Are utilities included in the rent, and if not, how much can I expect to pay for them?

Understanding which utilities are included in the rent and what you can expect to pay for any that are not will help you budget accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses.

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6. Are there any restrictions on how I can decorate or modify the apartment?

Knowing any restrictions on modifying or decorating the apartment will help you avoid potential fees or penalties.

7. Are pets allowed, and if so, is there an additional fee or deposit?

If you have pets, understanding the pet policy and any associated fees or deposits will help you plan your finances and avoid any surprises.

8. How will maintenance requests be handled, and what is the typical response time?

Understanding how maintenance requests will be handled and the typical response time will help you plan for any repairs or maintenance needs.

9. Are there any upcoming construction or renovation projects planned for the building or surrounding area?

Knowing about any upcoming construction or renovation projects can help you plan for any disruptions or noise.

10. What is the policy on renewing the lease, and how much notice is required?

Understanding the policy on renewing the lease and any required notice will help you plan for the future and avoid any potential penalties.

11. What is the policy on tenant insurance?

Knowing the policy on tenant insurance is important because it can impact your financial responsibility in the event of damages or accidents.

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Benefits of Having Tenant Insurance

Having tenant insurance is extremely important as it provides protection for your belongings in the event of theft, damage or loss. Many people assume that their landlord’s insurance will cover their personal possessions, but this is not the case.

What does landlord insurance cover?

Landlord insurance typically covers the physical structure of the rental property, as well as any liability associated with it. This may include damage caused by natural disasters, vandalism or theft, and liability coverage for injuries that occur on the property. Landlord insurance may also provide coverage for loss of rental income due to damage or other covered events.

Policies Included in Tenant Insurance Policies

Typical policies that are found in tenant insurance policies include:

Personal liability insurance

This provides coverage if someone is injured or their property is damaged while they are in your home, or if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property.

Contents insurance

This covers the cost of replacing your personal belongings, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing, if they are damaged or stolen.

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Additional cost of living

If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, such as a fire or flood, this coverage can help pay for temporary living expenses, such as hotel costs or rent for a new apartment.

Optional enhanced water coverage

This coverage can help protect you in the event of water damage caused by things like sewer backups or sump pump failures, which are not typically covered under standard policies.

APOLLO offers effortless tenant insurance coverage that’s as flexible as it is affordable. Get your free quote in less than a minute and we’ll send your policy documents right to your inbox.

Looking to learn more about renting your first apartment? Read our article 7 Steps to Take Before Moving Into Your First Apartment to find out more

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Get no-nonsense coverage that's the best value for your money. Purchase policies from your computer or phone, receive your documents instantly, and save when you buy online.

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