Home Rental Responsibilities of Tenants and Landlords
You have just moved in on your new apartment. Maybe it is your first time to rent. Or maybe you are considering a home rental. Know you and your landlord’s obligations for a smoother transaction and relationship.
What You Should Do
Do the Paperwork
Make a checklist for the necessary paperwork before meeting the landlord:
- Completed home rental application forms
- Copy of updated credit report
- References from past landlords, colleagues and employers
Also, read all details carefully before signing the lease. Check for terms on the use and refund of security deposits and allowable deductions. Refrain from signing if you find certain terms unacceptable, and make sure that every agreement is put on writing. Keep multiple copies. It is better to be a little paranoid than sorry.
Buy insurance
Renter’s insurance depends on the coverage that you need. For a $50,000 policy, be prepared to spend around $350 a year. This covers damages due to natural disasters or others’ negligence, and cases when someone sues you for carelessness.
Protect yourself and your investment
Do an inspection of the rental home before moving in, including the neighborhood. Inspect the apartment with the landlord, check for repairs that need to be made, and put everything in writing.
What Your Landlord Should Do
- Keep rental homes habitable
- Respect tenants’ privacy
Generally, repair expenses should be shouldered by the landlord. When a landlord refuses to do so, a tenant may call a home inspector, withhold a part of the rent for repairs or move out without thinking of liabilities. Ensure that the terms are written in the lease agreement.
Landlords should never go inside an apartment without consent from the tenant, unless it’s an emergency.
When maintaining homes for rent, tenants and landlords should keep communication lines open to avoid messy disputes. Write down all agreements made for a worry-free stay in a rental home.
