Review This 7 Item Checklist, Before Renting an Apartment

Many people, when looking for an apartment, want to find one that they can hang onto for many years. We all know the frustrations that come with moving. And, until you’re ready to purchase something more permanent, apartment living is right for many of us. This is especially true for students attending college in your area or employees on temporary assignment for their company in a community different from the one they live in.

There are very few rules and not a very long checklist that will be helpful as you view your potential dwelling. The first and most important rule is that you actually walk through the apartment you want to rent, and not a model of one just like it. In this way you can point out to the landlord any items that need to be replaced or maybe just repaired. Then you will not be liable for any of these problems at a later time. Now, let’s take a look at that checklist:

1) Make sure there are smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in place and working.

2) Check under the kitchen and bathroom sinks to determine if there are any leaks in the plumbing. Take a look at the toilet and faucets for leaks, as well. It would not hurt to turn on the faucet to check to see if the water pressure and temperature are satisfactory. (If there is an in-unit water heater there is less chance that you will run out of hot water, but these units are few and far between. Multiple units usually share just one water heater.)

3) Look at all the appliances in the unit to make sure they work properly. If there is not a washer or dryer in the unit you might rent, make sure the area they are in is well lit and only accessible to those who live in the building.

4) Check for any evidence that there may be unwanted rodents (you know who I am talking about) or insects inside of drawers and closets.

5) Look for any water damage, this could bring about future mold problems (peeling paint or wall paper might be another indication of this).

6) Locks and doors should open and close easily.

7) Whatever you do, don’t rush the inspection.

After the deposit is paid and the lease signed, you may not have extra cash to decorate your new place, putting your own personal stamp on it. If you are very creative, you can definitely glam it up a bit, without having to take out a loan.

Inexpensive furniture is available at some of the local thrift shops or some ready to assemble furniture can be purchased a a discount store. There are these new no-sew pillows that are available at craft stores that help change the look of a couch or chair from drab to fab. You can also decorate up the walls with some family photographs or even some of those wall decals in the shapes of flowers or some other favorite object of yours. Just do something to make it your own. This is going to be your new home for some time and you want to be comfortable and happy here.

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