20 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease
The short answer
Before you sign, ask these questions. They surface hidden costs, problem landlords, and deal-breakers before you are legally committed.
20 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease
Most renters ask about rent and move-in date — and sign. These 20 questions surface everything else that matters before you are legally committed.
About Rent and Fees
1. What is the total move-in cost? First month, last month, security deposit, pet deposit, admin fee, application fee, key deposit. Get the complete list.
2. Are utilities included? If not, what is the average monthly cost for each? Ask to see the past 12 months of utility bills.
3. Is there a lease renewal rent increase cap? If not, how much could rent increase at renewal? What has it increased by in the past?
4. Is there a grace period before late fees apply, and what is the late fee? Confirm both in writing.
5. What happens if rent is paid late repeatedly? Some leases allow eviction proceedings after two late payments, regardless of whether fees are paid.
About the Unit
6. What appliances are included, and who maintains them? If the dishwasher breaks, is that a landlord repair or your responsibility?
7. What is the cell service and internet situation? Test signal strength in the unit. Ask which internet providers service the building.
8. When was the roof last replaced? Any known leaks or water damage? Important for top-floor units.
9. Are there any planned rent or building improvements? Construction next door or in the building can seriously affect quality of life.
10. What is the pest control history? Ask directly. Landlords must answer truthfully in most states.
About the Building
11. How is mail handled? Is there secure package delivery? Mailbox locks?
12. Is there secure building entry? What is the buzzer/key system? Has there been any break-in history?
13. What are the parking arrangements? Included? Assigned? Cost? Is there guest parking?
14. Are there shared laundry facilities, and what is their condition? If no in-unit laundry, where is it and is it functional?
15. Are smoking, grills, and outdoor furniture allowed on balconies? HOA and building rules vary widely.
About Landlord Responsiveness
16. How do I submit maintenance requests, and what is the typical response time? Email? App? Phone? How fast do they typically respond to non-emergency issues?
17. Who manages the property day-to-day? Is there an on-site manager? A property management company? A direct line for emergencies?
18. How long have current tenants been in the building? High turnover is a signal — ask why people leave.
About Lease Terms
19. What is the early termination fee? What happens if you need to break the lease — financially and procedurally?
20. What is the policy on lease renewal and month-to-month? How far in advance must you notify of intent to leave? What happens if you stay without signing a renewal?
Showing up to these conversations with a Settl Verified Passport signals you are a serious, organized tenant — which often gets landlords to be more forthcoming and flexible in their answers.
Settl Team
Settl Editorial
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