| When you sign a lease or a rental agreement, remember it is a legal contract in which you, the tenant, and the landlord agree to terms and conditions of your tenancy. A lease has a specific term of tenancy during which the rent is fixed. |
- A written tenancy agreement is a month-to-month contract. You can end tenancy or move out anytime after giving 30 days written notice from the first of the month. The landlord can raise the rent, or ask you to move out, on the same 30 days notice.
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- Leases and rental agreements state conditions which are binding upon you and which you should understand before you sign. Does the rent include water, gas, oil, electricity? Be sure any verbal agreements with your landlord are added in writing in the lease.
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| Look for these important answers: When is the rent due? Is there a penalty for late payment? Is there a grace period for late payment? What deposits and fees are required (cleaning, damage, security, key)? What are the terms for refunding deposits? Do your roommates have to be approved by the landlord? Can the rent be increased if the number of tenants increases? What about guests? When does the guest become a tenant? What happens when one roommate leaves school or becomes ill? Is subletting permitted? Is there a fee for subletting? Who has the right of entry to conduct inspections and how often? Who is responsible for cleaning and maintenance? Will the landlord take care of the lawn or garden? Will the landlord provide paint? |
Are there any rules concerning conduct, quiet hours, etc.? Are pets allowed?
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Some things that you should be aware of to prevent future problems:
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- Be sure that you understand a lease or rental agreement thoroughly BEFORE you sign it.(Tack and nail holes in walls account for many deductions from security deposits.)
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| Do not sign a lease that is for a period longer than you actually plan to stay. |
| Read and keep a copy of your lease and make sure it is completed and signed by the landlord or agent. |
| Make your rent payments and deposits by check or money order and specify on it exactly what the check is for. |
| If you have to pay cash, always get a receipt. |
| Save your receipts, records, and all correspondence with your landlord until you have moved out. |
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