Tips on Tenant’s and Renter’s Rental Housing Rights – Part One

Moving into rental housing is a way to survive the recession. Here are some pointers about rental housing rights, insurance and other details that can help you settle in right.

Bring all the required paperwork. This is very important, especially if there are other people applying for the same place. Application papers, references and a copy of your credit report are important, and ask the property owner beforehand what more you need to bring.

Read the lease. Read the contract carefully to see if it has any conditions that you may find objectionable. This way, you may be able to resolve it. Better to find out about problems now, rather than later after the contract is signed.

Everything must be in writing. Any request or agreement between you and the property owner must be in writing. Verbal agreements must be backed up by confirmation letters. Make sure you both have copies. This is particularly important if it involves changes in the apartment itself, like repairs.

Privacy is important. Research on local tenant rights as it applies to your privacy. Be sure you know what is within the law, what is in the written agreement, and if both are compatible. Things like proper notification before a property owner can enter your apartment can be problematic if not handled properly.

Repairs are part of the deal. Remember that the property owner is responsible, for the most part, for providing you with habitable living quarters—it’s a renter’s right. There are many ways to make sure repairs are done. Research what actions are legal in your area, if necessary.

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