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Lease Advice

​Before Signing a Residential Lease:

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1. Read the Lease Thoroughly

  • Take your time to read every section of the lease agreement.

  • Understand your rights and responsibilities.

2. Understand the Terms

  • Pay attention to important terms such as lease duration, rent amount, payment due dates, and penalties for late payments.

3. Check for Additional Fees

  • Look for any hidden fees, such as maintenance charges, utilities, or pet fees.

  • Ensure you know what is included in the rent.

4. Clarify the Security Deposit

  • Understand the amount required for the security deposit, the conditions for its return, and any deductions that may apply.

5. Inquire About Maintenance Procedures

  • Ask how maintenance requests are handled and the timeline for repairs. This can impact your living experience.

6. Know the Termination Policy

  • Be aware of the lease termination conditions and any penalties for breaking the lease early.

7. Document the Condition of the Property

  • Before moving in, document the condition of the property with photos or videos.

  • This can protect you from disputes regarding damage when you move out.

8. Discuss Renewal Terms

  • Inquire about lease renewal options and any potential rent increases upon renewal.

9. Research the Landlord

  • If possible, research the landlord or property management company. Look for reviews or feedback from current or past tenants.

10. Ask About the Neighborhood

  • Investigate the neighborhood's safety, amenities, public transport, and proximity to work or school.

11. Consider Renters Insurance

  • Look into renters insurance to protect your personal belongings and cover liability in case of accidents.

12. Seek Legal Advice if Necessary

  • If anything in the lease seems unclear or unfair, consider consulting with a legal professional who specializes in tenant rights.

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By following these guidelines, you can make a more informed decision and help ensure a positive renting experience.

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Watch out for these common Red Flags: 

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​​1. Vague Language

  • Ambiguous terms or poorly defined clauses can lead to misunderstandings. Ensure everything is clear and specific.

2. Unreasonable Fees

  • Look for excessive fees for late payments, maintenance, or other charges that seem disproportionate to standard/state practices.

3. Excessive Security Deposit

  • Check if the security deposit exceeds the legal limits in your area. Typically, it should not exceed one or two months' rent.

4. No Maintenance Clause

  • A lease that does not specify maintenance responsibilities can lead to disputes about who is responsible for repairs.

5. No Clear Termination Policy

  • If the lease lacks a clear termination clause, it may be difficult to end the lease without penalties.

6. Automatic Renewal Without Notice

  • Be cautious if the lease includes automatic renewal clauses without giving you sufficient notice to opt out.

7. Prohibitive Rules

  • Look for overly restrictive rules regarding guests, pets, or alterations to the property that seem unreasonable.

8. Lack of Tenant Rights Information

  • A lease that doesn’t mention your rights as a tenant, such as the right to privacy and quiet enjoyment, can be a red flag.

9. No Mention of Utilities

  • If the lease does not specify which utilities are included, it can lead to unexpected costs.

10. Inflexible Payment Terms

  • Be wary of strict payment terms that do not allow for flexibility, such as only accepting payments via cash or requiring payment in person.

11. Landlord’s Right to Enter

  • A clause that allows the landlord to enter the property without notice can violate your privacy. Ensure there are reasonable notice requirements.

12. History of Legal Issues

  • If the landlord has a history of legal disputes or negative reviews, it may indicate potential problems in the future.

13. Failure to Provide a Copy

  • If the landlord does not provide you with a signed copy of the lease, it could indicate a lack of professionalism or transparency.

14. Inconsistent Information

  • If the terms discussed verbally do not match the written lease, this inconsistency can be a significant concern.

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By being vigilant about these red flags, you can help protect yourself from potential issues and ensure a more positive renting experience.

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​If you find a Red Flag in your Lease:

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1. Review the Lease Again

  • Carefully reread the section related to the red flag to ensure you fully understand the issue and its implications.

2. Research Local Laws

  • Familiarize yourself with tenant rights and laws in your area.

  • Websites for local housing authorities or tenant advocacy groups can provide helpful information.

3. Document Your Concerns

  • Make notes of the specific red flags you’ve identified.

  • Documentation can help if you need to escalate the issue later.

4. Communicate with the Landlord

  • Reach out to the landlord or property manager to discuss your concerns.

  • Be clear and professional in your communication.

5. Request Changes

  • If possible, ask for amendments to the lease to address the red flags.

  • This could include clarifying vague language or removing unreasonable fees.

6. Negotiate Terms

  • Be open to negotiating terms that are more favorable or reasonable. A landlord may be willing to compromise.

7. Consult Legal Advice

  • If the red flag is significant or if your landlord is unresponsive, consider seeking advice from a legal professional specializing in tenant rights.

  • Many cities have organizations that provide assistance to tenants. They may be able to offer guidance, support, or even mediation services

8. Consider Alternatives

  • If the red flags are severe and the landlord is unwilling to make changes, think about whether this lease is in your best interest. It may be worth looking for other rental options.

9. Get Everything in Writing

  • If any changes are agreed upon, ensure they are documented in writing and signed by both parties before proceeding.

10. Trust Your Instincts

  • If something feels off and the landlord is not accommodating, it’s okay to walk away.

  • A good rental situation should feel secure and fair.


Remember, it's essential to prioritize your rights and interests as a tenant. Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and seek help when needed.

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