The Ideal Questions to Ask Your Landlord Before Moving In
It may be so exciting to find your desired apartment and feel that you have achieved a grand target, yet when you sign the lease after leaving no questions to be answered, it can be a problem sometime in future. It is always best to collect as much information about your prospective landlord as you can prior to committing to renting a property with him. Through intelligent questions you will defend yourself, plan effectively and ensure the apartment is what you really need. This is the key aspect you need to discuss before moving in with your landlord.
Understanding Lease Terms
The first time you talk to your landlord, you should inquire about the lease itself. Read to determine whether the lease contract is a contract of a fixed term or that of month-to-month and inquire about what is going to occur at the expiry of the term. Understanding of the way the renewal works, will help you plan this way ahead and you might not be surprised when your lease expires. It also helps to inquire about any circumstances that may enable the landlord to cancel the lease before the expiry time.
Another crucial question is about rent increases. Ask them whether they would have a policy or limit to increase the rent on an annual basis. In some areas, there are very stringent methods and in other areas, landlords have greater ability to increase the rent. Knowing this ahead of time before you move in will allow you to put together your budget better and prevent future stress.
Clarifying Maintenance and Repairs
Say who takes care of constant repair and unwanted repairs. As an example, you would find out whether you are supposed to do menial stuff such as change the light bulbs or it is the responsibility of the landlord. This differs by the property and property manager so it is good to have these clarified beforehand to manage expectations.
It is also good to inquire on how fast they can respond when a maintenance request is made. Enquire whether there is an emergency contact incase of pressing matters that might arise beyond official working hours. Being aware of the speed at which the problems are to be resolved can seriously influence your level of comfort and safety in the new home.
Learning About Utility Costs
Utilities may increase your monthly costs whether by a lot or little as well and it is wiser to make inquiries of what is included in the rent. Other times tenants pay separately on electricity and internet yet the landlords pay on heat and water. Every single apartment may vary, and so it is always good to clarify before you can sign the contract.
Inquire of an average establishment cost of utility of previous tenants. It can be as vague a concept as you want, but at least it will have you estimate how much you are actually paying on a monthly basis. This can come in handy especially when looking for apartments for rent Calgary where the room costs can be different depending on the age of a building and the type of heating that it has.
Asking About Apartment Rules
Inquire your landlord about the presence of building or property rules before you make the commitment. As an example, inquire on whether pets are welcome and whether there are limitations to the kind or size of pet. When you prefer to entertain your friends, inquire about visitor policy and quiet time because it can interfere with your life.
You can also wonder whether you can do minor repairs, such as painting walls or hanging some artworks. There are landlords who are flexible and others who are strict which might influence how comfortable you are in making the space your own. When you know these rules, you will be able to make a decision on whether you will be comfortable with the apartment.
Verifying Safety and Security
Safety is a concern and you should not miss the opportunity to seek information about the building’s security. Enquire about security cameras, access control or on-site manager. The information that you will be getting will ensure that you will have a feeling of relief, especially when you are moving into a bigger complex.
Inquiring regarding the history of break-in or safety issues in the building or neighbourhood is also a good idea. Although the landlord may not necessarily provide all the information, his/her reaction can tell you about how seriously he/she thinks of security and whether the apartment is a good place to live in.
Spending a few minutes to get answers to these questions will give you even more confidence as you get your new lease. The responses will assist you to plan your budget, expectations as well as prevent surprises when you move in. Your landlord will be impressed by the fact you ask such considerate questions as it will become clear that you are interested in your apartment becoming a home.
