You found an apartment you love. Before you sign that lease and hand over thousands of dollars, make sure you ask these critical questions. Many renters discover problems after they move in—problems that were easy to uncover beforehand.
Before You Even Ask Questions...
Research the building on StreetSmart first. You'll know about violations, landlord history, and issues before the viewing—so you can ask informed questions.
Search any building for free💰 Money Questions
- "What is the total monthly rent?"
Make sure it matches the listing. Ask if there are any additional monthly fees.
- "What utilities are included?"
Heat is usually included in NYC. Ask about electric, gas, internet, water.
- "What's the security deposit?"
Maximum is 1 month's rent in NYC. Know your rights.
- "Is there a broker fee?"
Could add $3,000-5,000 to upfront costs. Broker fee guide.
- "Is this apartment rent-stabilized?"
Affects rent increases and your rights. Why it matters.
- "What are typical utility costs?"
Ask for estimates on electric/gas bills from previous tenants.
📝 Lease Questions
- "What is the lease length?"
Usually 1-2 years. Shorter leases may have higher rent.
- "When can I move in?"
Confirm exact date. Make sure it works with your current lease.
- "What happens at lease renewal?"
Will you be offered renewal? How much notice do you need to give?
- "What is the early termination policy?"
Can you break the lease? What penalties apply?
- "Is subletting allowed?"
Important if you might need to leave temporarily.
🏢 Building Questions
- "How is maintenance handled?"
Is there a super on-site? How quickly are repairs made?
- "Has there been any pest issues?"
Ask directly. Also check bedbug reports on StreetSmart.
- "Is laundry in-unit, in-building, or nearby?"
In-unit is rare in NYC. In-building is a big plus.
- "What's the package/mail situation?"
Is there a secure package room? Doorman? Amazon locker?
- "Is there storage available?"
Basement storage? Bike room? How much extra?
- "What's the heat situation?"
Individual control or building-wide? Check heat laws.
🚪 Apartment-Specific Questions
- "Why is the previous tenant leaving?"
Could reveal problems with the apartment or building.
- "How long has this unit been vacant?"
Long vacancy might mean issues. Or it might mean negotiating power.
- "Will any repairs be made before move-in?"
Get this in writing. Take photos of current condition.
- "Can I paint or make modifications?"
Many NYC apartments don't allow painting or require restoration.
- "What appliances are included?"
Dishwasher? Microwave? In-unit washer/dryer? AC units?
📋 Policy Questions
- "What is the pet policy?"
Type, size, breed restrictions? Extra deposit or monthly fee?
- "What are the guest policies?"
Some buildings have restrictions on overnight guests.
- "Are there quiet hours?"
Building rules about noise, construction, moving times.
- "Is renters insurance required?"
Many buildings require it. It's cheap and worth having anyway.
🚩 Red Flag Questions
These questions help you spot problems:
Warning Signs to Watch For
- !Pressure to sign immediately — Good apartments go fast, but high pressure = red flag
- !Can't see the actual unit — "It looks just like this one" is not acceptable
- !Evasive about past tenants or issues — Honest landlords don't hide things
- !Won't provide lease in advance — You should review before signing day
- !Asking for cash payments — Always pay by check or bank transfer
- !Security deposit over 1 month — Illegal in NYC since 2019
Printable Checklist
Quick Reference Checklist
💰 Money
- ☐ Total monthly rent
- ☐ What's included
- ☐ Security deposit
- ☐ Broker fee
- ☐ Rent-stabilized?
📝 Lease
- ☐ Lease length
- ☐ Move-in date
- ☐ Renewal terms
- ☐ Early termination
- ☐ Subletting policy
🏢 Building
- ☐ Maintenance process
- ☐ Pest history
- ☐ Laundry options
- ☐ Package handling
- ☐ Heat situation
📋 Policies
- ☐ Pet policy
- ☐ Guest rules
- ☐ Quiet hours
- ☐ Renters insurance
- ☐ Modifications allowed