4 Important Questions to Ask Your Potential Landlord

Sometimes buyers or sellers have to rent a home while they are finding their perfect home. Here are 8 Important Questions to Ask Your potential Landlord Before You Sign a Lease

What is included in the rent?

This should be the first question you have answered before signing any lease because it is important to find out what is and what is not included. Make a list of possible extras including utilities, parking, cable, internet, and amenities, and make sure you’re clear on any additional fees that could be tacked onto your rent.

What are the maintenance responsibilities?

When you are renting, it is important to be aware of which maintenance responsibilities fall on your shoulders. Whether it is landscaping or cleaning the gutters, have your landlord put in writing what is expected from you to ensure there are no surprises or arguments later on.

Why did the previous tenants leave?

Although not a common question to ask, it can be useful to know why they left. This question often catches landlords off guard allowing you to get inside information on potential problems. It can make you aware of issues with neighbours or give you clues that the landlord’s is likely to raise rent.

Are you allowed to decorate the property?

Leasing a house or apartment doesn’t mean you don’t want to turn your rental into a home. Before you sign a lease, ask the landlord about making changes to the property so that you know what you can and can’t change. Some may not approve any changes, some may be fine with simple changes like paint or landscaping, some may even approve bigger projects and even share in the cost. Just remember to always ask your landlord first.