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- Smoking.<\/strong>\u00a0An increasing number of rental apartments are now “smoke free.” While some might argue that people should be able to smoke in the privacy of their own homes, it remains difficult to keep cigarette smoke \u2014\u00a0and its irritants \u2014\u00a0from entering other nearby units and common areas. Such restrictions may also apply to tobacco-less vapor cigarettes and even marijuana where it’s now legal for medicinal and\/or recreational purposes.<\/li>\n
- Painting.<\/strong>\u00a0Some apartment buildings allow you to paint interior walls to your liking \u2014 as long as you pay for the paint and labor \u2014 while others demand you either acquire written approval from the property’s management or simply leave them their original color\u00a0(we hope you like beige).<\/li>\n
- Decorating.<\/strong>\u00a0While virtually all rental properties allow renters to hang pictures, mirrors and other wall-mounted items, many place restrictions on decor that requires physical alterations to the interior structure or that could permanently damage walls, floors or ceilings. If you plan to attach items of significant sizes or weights to interior surfaces \u2014 such as a wall-mounted TV \u2014 be sure to check with your property manager before making any changes you may come to regret.<\/li>\n
- Weight.\u00a0<\/strong>Weight can be an issue for multi-story buildings, especially older ones. As a result, you may not be able to keep a large aquarium, an upright piano, or a waterbed\u00a0(does anyone still own waterbeds?)<\/li>\n
- Noise.<\/strong>\u00a0Speaking of pianos, your lease may impose restrictions on playing music \u2014 live or recorded \u2014 that can be heard outside the confines of your unit at specific times. When you live in an apartment, headphones are your friends.<\/li>\n
- Appliances.<\/strong>\u00a0Are all major kitchen appliances, including ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers, provided by the apartment owner or do you have to provide some \u2014 or even all \u2014 of these yourself? If you have to buy any large appliance, you’ll need to figure that expense into your moving budget.<\/li>\n
- Maintenance and Repairs.<\/strong>\u00a0What interior upkeep is your responsibility and what is the owner’s? Pay particular attention to rules governing plumbing repairs, as even small ones can end up big bucks.<\/li>\n
- Utilities.<\/strong>\u00a0Are you responsible for paying monthly utilities, such as gas and electricity, or are these expenses included in your monthly rent? What about air conditioning? Even if utilities are included, check for any language restricting your usage or monthly allowances.<\/li>\n
- Balcony\/Patio\/Deck Usage.<\/strong>\u00a0If your apartment comes with an exterior balcony, deck or patio, there may be restrictions on how you can use it. Bans on wood-burning fires or charcoal barbecues are common.<\/li>\n
- Subleasing.<\/strong>\u00a0If you have to move before your lease expires, you may or may not be barred from sub-leasing the unit to another renter, depending on your contract’s language. If you think your short-term living situation may be in flux, it’s best to check with the property manager about sub-leasing rules before you commit yourself to a long-term contract.<\/li>\n
- Security Deposit and Refund.<\/strong>\u00a0How large is the required security deposit, and how much of it can you reasonably expect to get back when you leave? How does the property define “usual wear and tear” verses damage for which you will be held responsible?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u200bRemember, there is no such thing as a “standard” apartment lease. Rules and regulations vary from state to state, from market to market, and from property to property. Before signing a lease \u2014 which is a legally binding contract \u2014 make sure you fully understand your rights and your responsibilities under the agreement. Insist that everything be in writing to avoid any misunderstandings. And then enjoy your new home!<\/p>\n
Are you looking to make a big move to a new apartment? Visit our\u00a0apartment search<\/a>\u00a0page to find the best available apartment communities in Northern and Southern California.<\/p>\n
- Painting.<\/strong>\u00a0Some apartment buildings allow you to paint interior walls to your liking \u2014 as long as you pay for the paint and labor \u2014 while others demand you either acquire written approval from the property’s management or simply leave them their original color\u00a0(we hope you like beige).<\/li>\n
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