After the Hunt

1. Read through the lease thoroughly. Do not be afraid to ask questions and make sure you have a copy once it is signed. The following points should be covered in the lease:

• Names and addresses of landlord and tenant(s)
• Description of the property being rented
• Dates covered by the lease, when and if the lease can be renewed, and when and how the lease can be ended. If the lease is terminated early, is there a penalty?
• What is the amount of the rent, and when it is due. Is there any grace period if not paid on the agreed date? Is there a penalty for late payment? When can the rent be increased?
• Are utilities included in the rent? If some are included, they should be specified.
• Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs? How will these costs be handled? Are you expected to pay any part?
• Is extermination part of the maintenance? How often will it be done? Who will pay for it?
• Are pets allowed? If so, is there an extra charge?
• If the accommodation is furnished, a list of the furniture and its condition should be included in the lease. Who is responsible for the furnishings in case of fire or theft?
• Who has the right of entry to the rental unit? May the owner enter for inspection or repairs?
• Is a security deposit required? If so, how much? When and under what conditions will it be returned?
• If renting a room within a house, what areas may you use and when? Are there any kitchen restrictions? What are the guest policies?

Source: “Signing the Lease” from the “Off-Campus Housing Guide and Student Handbook,” Office of Student Affairs, Georgetown University

If you are still unsure, show the lease to a representative of your International Student Affairs Office or to a trusted local for input.

2. Call a locksmith and have the locks changed. You don’t know how many realtor’s offices have the key to the place you’re renting. Have a second lock installed if you still feel unsafe.

3. Clean the apartment thoroughly. It is easiest to clean an apartment when it is empty. Clean first, then set up your stuff. You don’t know what kind of germs the previous renter might have left behind so it’s best that you clean, clean, clean. (Check out cleaning tips section.)

4. Apply for renters’ insurance. If you have a lot of valuables (expensive computer and jewelry) it might be worth it to get renters’ insurance.

5. Paint. It’s cheaper and less time-consuming than wallpaper. It makes an apartment with all white walls seem less institutional and more like a home. (Check your lease though, some landlords require you to paint your apartment walls back to white when you leave it. If you’re not inclined to dealing with this later, keep the walls the way they are.)