Questions for Potential Landlords

Before signing a lease, be sure to know what is included. Check out this checklist of suggested questions or use the list below to get started. 

Suggested Questions for Landlords

• Do you take checks from all tenants in the apartment/house, or just one check from the group?
• How much is the security deposit and what should I do to receive as much of my deposit back as possible?
• What utilities are included in rent? If non, what is an estimate of the monthly cost?
• Is Wifi available? If not, what is the estimated cost?
• How many parking places are available to the apartment/house? Is there a monthly charge? Will I have to sign a parking contract for 12 months?
• If the last month of the lease is not a complete month, will the rent be prorated?
• Is there a washer/dryer in the unit? If not, where is the laundry facility? Is it a coin or an electronic payment system? How many washers/dryers?
• Is there a maintenance person on call 24/7? What is the emergency phone number?
• Is there any security in the building or area? How does security differ on weekdays and weekends? During holidays/breaks? Home football games?
• Are there exterior lights, and are they working?
• When will I be expected to renew the lease for another year?
• Who is responsible for grass-cutting and snow removal (houses only)?
• Do all bedrooms have smoke detectors? Are they wired or battery-operated?
• Does the house/complex have a sprinkler system? Who pays for it?
• Is subletting allowed? What is the sublet process?
• If no one is in the apartment for the summer, can the utilities be turned off?
• Where is the nearest bus stop, grocery store, etc.?