Good Questions to Ask When Touring an Apartment

When touring an apartment, prospective renters gather information to make an informed decision and avoid unexpected situations. Preparing a list of questions helps ensure all essential aspects of a potential living space are understood. This allows individuals to assess whether a property aligns with their needs before committing to a lease.

Questions About the Apartment Unit

Understanding the specifics of the individual apartment unit is important for a comfortable living experience. Inquire about the included appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and laundry machines. Confirm which utilities are the tenant’s responsibility, as costs for electricity, gas, water, and internet can add to monthly expenses. Average monthly utility costs for a US apartment can range from $150 to $300, with electricity typically being the largest portion, ranging from $60 to $190 per month depending on apartment size and climate.

Ask about the process for submitting maintenance requests and the response time for repairs. Understanding the condition and age of major systems, such as heating and air conditioning, is important for anticipating utility usage and comfort. Investigate storage options within the unit, like closets or pantries, and inquire about noise levels from adjacent units or outside the building. Finally, ask if there are any known issues or recent repairs within the specific unit.

Questions About the Building and Community

Beyond the individual unit, the building and surrounding community impact daily life. Inquire about available shared amenities, such as fitness centers, laundry facilities, or swimming pools, and clarify any associated fees or rules for their use. Security measures are a concern; ask about controlled access points, surveillance cameras, or on-site security.

Determine if parking is assigned, open, or if guest parking is provided, and if there are any related costs. For those with pets, clarify the pet policy, including any breed or weight restrictions, and whether there are additional pet rents or deposits. Understand the procedures for trash and recycling disposal and any specific noise policies for common areas or quiet hours. Inquire about the general cleanliness and maintenance standards of shared spaces and neighborhood access to public transportation or essential services.

Questions About Lease Terms and Financials

Understanding lease terms and financial obligations is important before signing any agreement. Confirm the monthly rent amount and what it covers, as some rents may include certain utilities or amenities. Inquire about the security deposit amount, which typically ranges from one to two months’ rent, and the conditions for its refund.

Clarify any additional fees, such as application fees, which often range from $40 to $100 per applicant, administrative fees, or move-in/move-out charges that can be $150 to $400. Ask about accepted rent payment methods and any late payment policies, including late fees. Understand the available lease durations and the policies for early lease termination. Discuss the process for lease renewal and potential rent increases, and confirm if renter’s insurance is a requirement, typically costing around $12 to $25 per month.

Questions About the Application and Move-In Process

Navigating the application and move-in process requires clarity. Ask about the documents required for the application, which commonly include photo identification, proof of income, and past rental history. Inquire about the timeline for application review and approval, which can range from one to three business days but may extend longer due to background or credit checks.

Clarify the criteria for these background and credit checks, as landlords often look for a consistent income (e.g., three times the monthly rent) and a reasonable credit score. Determine the earliest possible move-in date and any restrictions on move-in times or days, particularly for complexes with specific rules regarding moving hours. Inquire about designated loading zones, elevator access, and the process for receiving keys and access codes. Finally, establish who the primary contact person will be for any questions or issues.