For some of us, our first "home" is a rental property. The process of renting an apartment is a common experience for many people. But what about renting a house from a private owner?
In some ways, the process of renting a house is similar to renting an apartment in a commercially-owned community. However, in many other ways, it's truly unique.
Renting a house has many advantages, but it's essential to be prepared and informed about what you’re getting into. It’s definitely worth it to take the time up front to learn and understand your legal rights and responsibilities as a tenant. This will help make your rental experience much more pleasant in the long run.
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when renting a house:
- Research and understand the Landlord-Tenant laws in your area. In many areas, these are available as summaries of applicable statutes. Click here for a state by state resource.
- Do your own inspection before signing a lease. This protects you from responsibility for pre-existing damage and gives you a general idea of the mechanical and structural condition of the property.
- Read your lease. Look for and ask about any added clauses in the lease. These may be perfectly justified or may put you at risk. If questionable, ask an attorney.
- Do a move-in inspection. Photograph and document any damage or special circumstances you find. Existing damage, if not repaired, should be documented.
- Pay rent on time. Timely rent payment is a top provision of the lease. Payment by check or receiving receipts for cash is vital to maintaining a proper ‘paper trail’ of payments.
- Have a good relationship with the landlord. Communicate in a friendly manner. Keep the landlord informed. A good relationship will likely get you responses to questions and repair issues in a timely manner too.
- Document your communication with the landlord. Keeping communication formally documented (emails, texts, copies of letters) will prevent trouble if disagreements occur.
- Know your neighbors. It’s always nice to be a friendly, good neighbor. And neighbors may know something of the history of the property and the landlord.
- Contact the landlord promptly if the property needs repairs. First, because some issues like water leaks can cause further damage. Second, you may be accountable if timely reporting is not made.
- Get permission before getting a pet. Your lease should specify the pet policy, and pets can cause damage. Ask before you bring a pet home.
- Be prepared for inspections. Again, this should be specified in the lease, with a provision for notification. Know what the landlord’s policy is. And be accommodating.
- If things get sticky, contact a lawyer. Landlords may try to exert false authority. A lawyer will cost you some money but can save you even more in the long run.
- When the lease is up, abide by provisions for vacating the property. Take photographs to document the condition you leave the property in.
- Leave on good terms. Many future landlords will ask for references.
Are you currently renting a house or considering it? What other tips would you add?
Related Resource:
Tough Nickel 15 Tips for Renting a House