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Member LoginIf you fail to document the initial condition of your apartment before moving in, or don't get your landlord to acknowledge existing damages, you could be billed for these damages when you move out. Here is how to stay on top of things when moving into your new unit.
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- Cracks or holes in the floor, walls, or ceiling.
- Signs of leaking water or water damage in the floor, walls, or ceiling.
- Signs of rust in water from the taps.
- Leaks in bathroom or kitchen fixtures.
- Lack of hot water.
- Inadequate lighting or insufficient electrical outlets.
- Inadequate heating or air conditioning.
- Inadequate ventilation or offensive odors.
- Defects in electrical wiring and fixtures.
- Damaged flooring.
- Damaged furnishings (if it's a furnished unit).
- Signs of insects, vermin, or rodents.
- Accumulated dirt and debris.
- Inadequate trash and garbage receptacles.
- Chipping paint in older buildings.
- Also, look at the exterior of the building and any common areas, such as hallways and courtyards. Does the building appear to be well-maintained? Are the common areas clean and well-kept?
Ask the landlord who will be responsible for paying for utilities (gas, electric, water, and trash collection). You will probably be responsible for some, and possibly all of them. Try to find out how much the previous tenant paid for utilities. This will help you be certain that you can afford the total amount of the rent and utilities each month. With increasing energy costs, it's important to consider whether the rental unit and its appliances are energy efficient.
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During this initial walk-through of the rental unit, you will have the chance to see how your potential landlord reacts to your concerns about it. At the same time, the landlord will learn how you handle potential problems. You may not be able to reach an agreement on every point, or you may not be able to agree on anything. Nonetheless, how you get along will help both of you decide whether you will become a tenant.
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If the landlord isn't required by law to make the repairs, you should still write down a description of any problems if you are going to rent the property. It's a good idea to ask the landlord to sign and date the written description. Also, take photographs or a video of the problems. Your signed, written description and photographs or video will document that the problems were there when you moved in, and can help avoid disagreement later about your responsibility for the problems.
Finally, it's a good idea to walk or drive around the neighborhood during the day and again in the evening. Ask neighbors how they like living in the area. If the rental unit is in an apartment complex, ask some of the tenants how they get along with the landlord and the other tenants. If you are concerned about safety, ask neighbors and tenants if there have been any problems, and whether they think that the area is safe.
Download Our Move In/Out Checklist
and....don't forget to call to turn on the utilities!