If you’re about to move into your very first rental place, you’re probably excited. This will be your first home that’s all to yourself. You have every reason to celebrate. Chances are that you’ve already researched a few apartments, checked out the neighborhood and read all the reviews you could find online before you sign a lease. But you’re probably forgetting or overlooking a bunch of small but important things you’ll want to know as a renter. Melanie French, the executive vice president of Cortland Partners — a company that owns and manages more than 33,000 apartment homes throughout the South — has filled us in on what first-time renters should be aware of.
Expect to Pay Up
Many places will require you to pay the first and last month’s rent in addition to a deposit when you first move in, which can be quite costly up front. Many property managers also won’t rent to residents who don’t make at least two or three times what the rent costs per month. Keep those budget limitations in mind when you’re applying for places.
Utilities for One or Two?
At many buildings, renters are responsible for paying utilities — water, gas, cable, electricity and Internet — in addition to the rent. You’ll have to put the utilities in your name and probably pay a deposit if you don’t have a credit history. If you’re splitting utilities or rent with your roommates, normally one person is responsible for paying the entire bill. You’ll want to decide who that is and give your money to him or her so it can get paid.
Your Background Will Probably Be Checked
As part of the application process, many apartment communities have their applicants undergo a background check. Many properties won’t rent to individuals who have criminal histories or poor credit scores.
Be Aware of the Legally Binding Rules
Most communities will require you to sign a legally binding 12-month lease. This usually means you can’t leave or move out if you get another job or have a disagreement with a roommate without paying fees. Changing roommates or adding someone to the lease usually means the person moving in has to fill out a separate application and get approval.
Be Aware of Move-In Hours
Many apartment communities have specific move-in hours to prevent residents from moving in during the night. Some elevator buildings also require you to reserve a certain time to use the elevator. Be mindful of this, as you wouldn’t want to pull a Ross Geller and move your couch up the stairs.
Property Managers Have the Right to Access Your Home
If there’s a perceived emergency (like a fire), a property manager has the right to come into your home at any time. For non-emergencies like broken towel racks or other minor maintenance issues, you should expect at least a 24-hour notice before staff comes into your apartment.
Check on Pet Policies
Many apartment communities have pet restrictions. Some won’t allow any pets at all. These rules can include the number of pets allowed, certain breeds permitted or even weight limits. You’ll want to ask before you move in to ensure your pet is welcome. Seeing as many reptiles are prohibited, it might be best to hold off on buying that pet snake until you’re sure it’s allowed.
What Property Managers Will Cover
Most apartment managers are responsible for making sure your home is habitable and its appliances are in good working order. Unless you break or damage something on your own, the property manager is responsible for fixing it. It’s a good idea to test out the appliances as soon as you move in and let the property manager know immediately if there are issues. If the fridge breaks, you can call the maintenance staff to fix it. Property managers are not responsible for your personal belongings.
You May Have to Purchase Renter’s Insurance
Some apartment communities will require you to carry renter’s insurance to cover any damage to the apartment. You’ll want to factor the cost of this into the other expenses you’ll be responsible for.
In addition to this list of tips, be sure to check out our list of seven common rookie mistakes first-time renters make and how to navigate your first time renting a place. Good luck renting your very first apartment!