The apartment looks great. The neighborhood is perfect. But before you sign, ask these questions. Boston has unique challenges—old buildings, brutal winters, high costs—and the right questions can save you from a nightmare.
1. Money Questions
Costs to Clarify
- "What's the total move-in cost?"
First, last, security deposit, broker fee. Get exact numbers.
- "What utilities are included?"
Heat? Hot water? Electric? Water/sewer? Internet?
- "What do utilities typically cost here?"
Ask for winter heating bills especially. Old buildings can be expensive.
- "Is there a broker fee?"
If yes, how much? In Boston it's typically one month rent.
- "Is parking included? How much extra?"
Boston parking can add $150-400/month.
- "How is rent paid?"
Check, online portal, Venmo? Get payment details.
2. Heat & Winter Questions
Critical for Boston
Boston winters are brutal. Heat questions aren't optional.
- "What type of heating system?"
Gas? Oil? Electric? Radiators vs. forced air?
- "Is heat included in rent?"
If not, what are typical winter bills?
- "When was the heating system last serviced?"
Annual service is standard. No recent service = red flag.
- "Do I control my own heat?"
Or is it building-wide? Can you adjust your thermostat?
- "How old are the windows?"
Old single-pane = drafty and expensive. Ask about storm windows.
Learn your heat rights in Boston →
3. Building & Maintenance Questions
Building Management
- "Who do I contact for repairs?"
Direct landlord? Property manager? Management company?
- "What's the typical response time for repairs?"
Same day? A week? Watch for vague answers.
- "Is there 24/7 emergency maintenance?"
Critical for heat failures in winter.
- "When was the building built?"
Older buildings have charm but also more issues.
- "Any recent renovations or planned repairs?"
Good to know what's been fixed and what might disrupt you.
4. Pest Questions
Don't Be Embarrassed to Ask
Old cities have pests. Good landlords address it proactively.
- "Has the building had any pest issues?"
Mice, roaches, bedbugs. Be direct.
- "Is there regular pest control service?"
Preventive treatments are a good sign.
- "Who pays for pest control?"
Should be the landlord's responsibility.
5. Lease Questions
- "What's the lease term?"
Sept 1 to Aug 31 is standard in Boston.
- "Is subletting allowed?"
Important if your plans might change.
- "What happens at the end of the lease?"
Month-to-month? Renewal required? Rent increase?
- "Is there an early termination clause?"
What's the penalty if you need to break the lease?
- "What are the rules about guests?"
Long-term guests, overnight policies, etc.
6. Amenities & Features
- "Is there laundry in the building?" — If not, where's the nearest laundromat?
- "Is there storage?" — Basement storage? Extra closets?
- "Is the building pet-friendly?" — Size limits? Extra deposit?
- "Is there A/C or can I install a window unit?"
- "What appliances are included?" — Dishwasher? Disposal? Microwave?
- "Is there outdoor space?" — Shared yard? Roof deck? Porch?
7. Neighbors & Building Questions
- "How many units are in the building?"
- "Who else lives here?" — Families? Students? Professionals?
- "Are there any noise issues?" — Thin walls? Noisy neighbors?
- "What's the parking situation?" — Street parking? Permit required?
- "Who handles snow removal?" — Sidewalks, parking, etc.
8. Red Flag Questions
Ask These to Spot Problems
- "Why is the previous tenant leaving?"
- "How long has the unit been vacant?"
- "Can I see the unit I'll actually be renting?"
- "Can I talk to current tenants?"
- "Has the building had any code violations?"
Verify Their Answers
Landlords don't always tell the full story. Check a building's violation history and complaints before signing.
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