Before you sign a lease, ask these questions. Getting clear answers now prevents surprises later. Print this list or save it to your phone for your apartment viewings.
About Costs & Payments
- What is the monthly rent?
- When is rent due? Is there a grace period?
- What are the late fees?
- How do I pay rent? (check, online, etc.)
- What's the security deposit? (PA max: 2 months first year)
- Is last month's rent required upfront?
- Are there any other move-in fees?
- Is there a rental application fee? How much?
About Utilities
- Which utilities are included in rent?
- Which utilities am I responsible for?
- What's the average monthly cost for utilities?
- Who provides electricity? (PECO)
- Who provides gas? (PGW)
- Is water included or separate?
- What internet providers service the building?
- How is heat provided? (gas, electric, radiator, baseboard)
About the Lease
- What is the lease term? (12 months typical)
- Is there an option for a shorter term?
- What happens at the end of the lease?
- What's the penalty for breaking the lease early?
- How much notice do I need to give to move out?
- Does the lease automatically renew?
- Can you add a roommate later? What's the process?
- Is subletting allowed?
About the Building
- Is there laundry in-unit? In-building? Nearby?
- Is there storage space? Extra cost?
- Is there bike storage?
- What's the package delivery situation?
- Is there a doorman or concierge?
- Are there laundry facilities? Hours? Cost?
- Is there a gym or other amenities?
- How is trash/recycling handled?
- Are there any building rules I should know about?
About Parking
- Is parking available? Cost?
- Is it assigned or first-come?
- Is it covered or outdoor?
- What's street parking like?
- Do I need a parking permit? (varies by neighborhood)
- How easy is it to find street parking?
About Pets
- Are pets allowed?
- Any breed or size restrictions?
- Is there a pet deposit? How much? (refundable?)
- Is there monthly pet rent?
- How many pets are allowed?
- Are there pet amenities (dog wash, yard)?
About Maintenance
- How do I submit maintenance requests?
- What's the typical response time?
- Is there 24/7 emergency maintenance?
- Who do I call for emergencies?
- Has the building had any recent issues? (heating, plumbing, pests)
- When was the last time this unit was renovated?
- Are appliances included? (fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave)
About Safety & Security
- Are there smoke detectors and CO detectors?
- Are there fire extinguishers?
- Is the building secure entry?
- Are there security cameras?
- Has there been any crime in the building recently?
- What kind of locks are on the door?
- Can I add additional locks?
About the Landlord
- Who is the landlord? (individual or company)
- Is there a property management company?
- Who do I contact for issues?
- Does the building have a valid rental license?
- Can I speak to current or former tenants?
About This Specific Unit
- Why is the previous tenant leaving?
- How long was the previous tenant here?
- What's the actual square footage?
- Which direction do the windows face?
- What floor is the unit on?
- Is there air conditioning? (window units? central?)
- How many closets are there?
- Is the unit recently painted/cleaned?
- Can I paint or make modifications?
Things to Check During Viewing
- Turn on all faucets â check water pressure
- Flush the toilet
- Test all light switches and outlets
- Open and close all windows
- Check for cell phone signal in every room
- Look under sinks for water damage or mold
- Check behind appliances for pests
- Open all closets and cabinets
- Test the locks on all doors
- Look at the view from windows
- Check the hallways and common areas