Looking for a new apartment can be both exciting and daunting. There are so many things to think about and consider before you take the plunge and sign a lease.
To help you through the process, we’ve compiled a list of important questions to ask when touring an apartment.
45 Questions you can ask when you are touring for an apartment:
- How long is the lease?
- Are there any options to renew?
- How much is the rent?
- When is the rent due?
- Are there any late fees?
- What is the security deposit?
- Is the apartment furnished or unfurnished?
- Are utilities included in the rent? If not, how much will I need to budget for things like electricity, water, trash, etc.?
- What kind of furniture and appliances are included?
- How many people can live in the apartment?
- Is the building pet-friendly?
- Are pets allowed? If so, what kinds and how many?
- Are there any additional pet fees?
- Is smoking allowed inside the apartment or on the property?
- What kind of security does the building have?
- What kind of parking is available?
- Is there an additional fee for parking?
- When will maintenance or repair work be carried out? Will it be during business hours or do they offer 24/7 service?
- Does the apartment have cable or satellite TV?
- Does the apartment have Wi-Fi?
- What is included in the monthly price of rent (e.g., cable, Internet)?
- What kind of storage space is available (e.g., closets, cabinets)?
- What is the square footage of the apartment?
- Is there central air conditioning and heating or will I need to provide my own unit(s)?
- Does the apartment have a kitchen?
- Does the apartment have a living room?
- Does the apartment have a balcony or patio?
- How many bedrooms does the apartment have?
- How many bathrooms does the apartment have?
- Is there a laundry facility on-site?
- Does the kitchen come equipped with a dishwasher and garbage disposal? refrigerator? oven/stovetop? microwave oven?
- Is washer/dryer hookup available in the unit or did I need to use communal machines in a shared laundry room?
- Do all windows have screens? Can they be opened and closed easily?
- What kind of flooring is in each room (e.g., carpeting, hardwood, tile)?
- Are there any areas that are shared with other tenants (e.g., yard, pool, gym)?
- Do I need renter’s insurance?
- Am I responsible for handling any pest control issues or will that be taken care of by management/the landlord?
- What is the length of the tour/how much time do I have to look around?
- Can I visit at different times or on different days to get a second look?
- Is there anything else I should know or ask about before making my decision?
- Is there central air conditioning and heating or will I need to provide my own unit(s)?
- When is trash picked up?
- What is the guest policy?
- How often are the common areas cleaned?
- Who do I contact in case of maintenance issues?
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you say when interested in an apartment?
If you’re interested in an apartment, you should express interest and inquire about availability. Inquire about the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the terms of the lease, the monthly rental rate, and any other questions you may have.
If you have the opportunity to view the apartment, be sure to ask about the condition of the apartment and the appliances available. Thank the landlord or leasing agent for their time and let them know when you’ll be in touch again.
How should I prepare for an apartment viewing?
The best way to prepare for an apartment viewing is to come prepared with questions. Have a general idea of what you’re looking for and what your budget is.
If you already have a commitment for a mortgage, bring a copy of the letter. Ask about square footage, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, monthly rent, and any other amenities that are important to you.
If you have a pet, inquire about the pet policy. And if you like what you see, you can apply right away!
Under what circumstances may the landlord enter your apartment?
A landlord may enter an apartment only with the tenant’s permission or in an emergency. If the tenant isn’t at home, the landlord may enter the apartment if he/she’s a key or if he/she notifies the tenant and waits a reasonable time for the tenant to return.
The landlord must also give the tenant 24 hours’ notice before entering an apartment unless it is an emergency.
Conclusion
After asking these questions, you should have a better idea of what it would be like to live in this apartment complex. Also consider your budget, transportation needs, preferred location, and desired amenities to make sure this apartment is right for you!
