Make sure to answer all of these questions as you search for a rental property that fits your needs and preferences. Once you identify a property that you'd like to visit and inspect, be sure to go through the property inspection checklist as well.
Lease and finances
- What is the amount for rent each month or each semester?
- How is rent paid?
- When is the rent due?
- Is rent paid individually by each person or as a group?
- Are there late fees?
- Does the rent include utilities – if so, which ones?
- What is the length of the lease?
- Is there an application fee or security deposit required – how much?
- Under what circumstances is the security deposit held or deducted from?
- Are there any fees, one-time charges or additional payments (parking, storage, laundry, trash pickup, etc.)?
Safety
- Are the exterior doors equipped with deadbolt locks?
- Are there other safety measures installed on the exterior doors (chains, peepholes, cameras, etc.)?
- Is the dwelling area clean and well-lit?
- Are there adequate security provisions in and around the building or complex?
Miscellaneous
- What day is trash collected and by what service?
- Do you need to use Binghamton blue bags or special trash cans?
- How will you receive mail and packages?
- How far is the dwelling from the nearest bus stop, grocery store, bank, etc.?
Building maintenance and features
- Is the premises furnished or unfurnished?
- What furnishings are included and are they clean and in good repair?
- What appliances are included and are they in good, working condition?
- What maintenance services are included?
- Are tenants adequately forewarned of routine or scheduled maintenance services performed within their living quarters?
- How is emergency maintenance service handled?
- What happens if you get locked out or lose your keys?
- Are there enough exits, fire and/or emergency exits?
- Do the fire alarms, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors work?