20 questions to ask when renting an apartment

Choosing a new apartment is a big decision that can impact your life for a long time. As you tour the rental options in your area, there are many different factors you’ll want to consider to be sure you find the perfect fit.

How will you know when you’ve found it? Here are 20 key questions to ask when renting an apartment to help you feel confident it’s the home-sweet-home you imagined.

How much is rent and the security deposit?

Our advice is to personally call, email or visit the landlord to ask about rental costs so you know you’re getting the most up-to-date information. Also, remember to bring up the security deposit, as well as any other upfront costs. This may save you from unpleasant surprises before you sign anything.

Aside from knowing the rental price, any apartment hunter should also ask themself, “How much should I spend on rent?” Setting a budget ahead of the search helps narrow the possibilities and save you time by eliminating options that are too expensive.

How much are utilities and what do I cover?

Every apartment complex handles utilities differently. Water, electricity, air conditioning, heating, gas and more may be split between landlord and tenant. For example, your landlord might cover water and trash removal, while you pay electricity and gas. Or your apartment may provide access to cable and wi-fi, but you could be responsible for paying for them on your own.

Only your landlord will know for sure, and they should be clear about what’s expected of you. Before leasing an apartment, ask what utilities, if any, are included in the rent and which ones the tenant is required to cover. Record the answers, factor the costs into your budget and look for the place that offers the most for the least.

How does parking work?

Some apartment complexes have their own parking lots, with many spaces reserved for tenants and a few set aside for guests. Others may give residents access to a dedicated structure, providing greater security — but possibly at a higher cost. Still others may only offer street parking, which can be expensive.

In short, parking can be a complex situation involving specific locations and extra costs. If you have a car, get all the details so you can weigh your options and consider what’s best for you.

What’s the pet policy and is there a deposit or fee?

If you have a furry friend or might want one someday, make this one of the first questions to ask when touring an apartment. A no-pet policy could be a dealbreaker, no matter how great the other perks may be.

Some landlords allow pets if you pay a one-time deposit and/or additional monthly fees. Make sure to keep that in mind when adding up the overall costs.

What amenities are included?

Utilities refer to an apartment’s operational features — the things that make living there comfortable. Amenities are the complex’s welcome bonuses — the things that make living there enjoyable. A clubhouse, swimming pool, public kitchen, laundry facility and fitness room are popular examples.

While amenities like these are great, keep in mind they can lead to higher rent. As your landlord takes you through each selling point on your tour, ask whether these perks are included in the rent price. Also, carefully consider if you’ll even use them.

Do I need renters insurance?

If you live in an apartment, you would be wise to look for renters insurance. In fact, some places make it mandatory for all residents. Be sure to ask your landlord in advance so you can make any arrangements you need.

Even if it's not required, getting your own policy could bring you peace of mind. True, landlords have their own insurance, but it's based on their duties and would only cover their share of the damages. Renters insurance, on the other hand, offers you protection for your belongings, as well as liability coverage if you're held responsible for injuries someone sustains while in your apartment.

Can you describe the application process?

Applying for an apartment can be a time-consuming process. You might have to pay fees and complete multiple steps, including a background check and other screenings, just to see if you qualify. Even so, this may be preferable to the alternative: apartment listings that promise no credit check may be scams.

You can always learn about each step of the application process as you go, but it could be helpful to know ahead of time — especially if there are any fees and risks involved. If anything is unclear, you would also have the opportunity to ask the landlord to explain it.

What should I know about rent increases?

A variety of factors can change the value of an apartment. Examples include market shifts, new installations, repairs and replacement of fixtures. Your rent will likely not change for the duration of your lease. Once the time comes to sign again, though, your monthly payments may very well go up.

Why should you ask this question when starting a lease? Because your potential landlord’s response might give you a clue about what to expect in the future, which is important if you hope to stay in the apartment long term. At the very least, it might help you decide whether to look for a new place well before your lease ends.

What are the lease length options?

How long are you looking to stay at your next apartment? One year, two years, longer, less? Not everyone has a plan in mind, which means the apartment’s available options may suggest some choices for future planning.

Landlords usually inform apartment hunters about the duration of their standard lease, so you might need to probe them for other available options. Be sure to make this one of the questions you ask before leasing an apartment, even if the only length option they mention sounds good. They may have something that would be even better for you.

Can I make changes to the rental unit?

Right after moving day, most people want to personalize and beautify their living space with art, decorations and other belongings. They may want to paint walls or add fixtures that complement their style and bring warmth to their new home.

Apartment residents are usually temporary, however, so landlords may not allow certain kinds of changes, believing they may hurt the unit’s future value. If it’s important to add your flair to your apartment, take the time to go over policies and get a better understanding of changes that are permitted.

How do maintenance requests work?

One of the primary ways tenants interact with their landlord is through maintenance requests. After all, it’s the complex owner’s duty to keep most things in their apartments running smoothly. If your shower stops pumping heated water or your lock gets sticky, you normally contact your landlord to initiate a maintenance order.

By asking about the process of filing maintenance requests, you can gain insight about how a landlord views this responsibility. Does the process seem straightforward or complicated? Are approvals easy, or do they require a great deal of evidence and demonstration? The answers to these questions may reveal how responsive a landlord is — or how willing they are to let you live with inconvenience.

What’s the guest policy?

Before assuming a landlord would be okay with your best friend crashing on your couch for a while, be sure to find out if there is a guest policy before moving in.

In most cases, you won’t need permission for someone to visit for a few hours, but if that stay is a few days or longer, you might. Depending on the terms of the policy, you could even need permission for someone to spend the night. By asking about any rules regarding guests, you’ll know in advance how a place fits with your social life.

What’s the neighborhood like?

The old real estate mantra that “location, location, location” should guide where you live holds true for apartment hunters, too. Of course, there’s more to it than that, as this list of crucial questions demonstrates. Still, the area around the complex is important to consider.

Pull together as much information as you can on the neighborhood, starting with a simple internet search. Ask for your landlord’s perspective and note any areas of concern. We also recommend exploring on your own — by car and on foot — paying attention to safety and maintenance issues, traffic, and proximity to shopping, restaurants, businesses and key services.

How soon are you looking to fill the unit?

Apartment owners are usually interested in starting a new lease as soon as the current one ends. So, knowing when the landlord would like someone to move in could give you an edge over others vying for the same space.

Weighing your options is still a vital part of the apartment search process, but don’t procrastinate on making a decision. If you’ve discovered how wonderful an apartment is, it’s likely others have as well.

Do I need a cosigner?

People with rental history have a record that landlords can review when evaluating their application. If this is your first time paying rent, however, they won’t know if they can trust you to make payments on time and consistently. Adding a cosigner to the contract may make it easier to get approved, because their signature promises if you can’t pay rent, someone else will pay for you.

Many new renters also worry about background and credit checks, however there are some landlords who won’t ask for them.

What payment methods are accepted?

Rent payments can take a variety of forms, and some apartment complexes offer more payment method options than others. Before you make any assumptions, double-check each landlord’s specific policies.

It’s common for landlords to accept checks or cards. Or you might be able to set up regular automatic bank withdrawals online. (Warning: Anyone who only takes cash is likely a scammer).

What furnishings and appliances are included?

Preparing for the big move is a big task. You must figure out what to take and what you need to get. It’s helpful to know that some apartments come fully furnished and may include appliances, while others only have a bed. Every place is different.

Clearly, the answer to this question could impact your budget. It can even make or break your apartment options, depending on what items you do or do not own. Be sure to ask about kitchen appliances, washer/dryer, beds/bedding, chairs, sofas, tables, TV sets and anything else you might need in your new home.

How much notice do you give before you or a representative shows up at the property?

An interesting agreement comes with living in an apartment. It’s your home, and you pay to stay there. But someone else owns it and covers many responsibilities related to it. Technically, they have at least some right to enter at any time for any reason.

Even so, many building owners respect their tenants by giving them advance notice. Depending on the person and situation, you may have days or hours or minutes to prepare. We recommend asking up front how much notice they usually give to reduce last-minute stress if they need to enter your apartment.

What’s your late fee policy?

Most apartment contracts provide some leeway for late rent payments. Afterall, accidents can happen. Paychecks can come late. And it’s not uncommon to be hit with a temporary strain on your budget.

As a result, landlords usually have a late fee policy, and you’ll want to ask about it so you can be prepared. You should also find out if there’s a late fee charge to determine if it’s fair and within state legal limits. In the event you do have to make a late payment, at least you won’t be blindsided by unexpected charges.

What’s your subletting policy?

Subletting is when a renter temporarily moves out and lets someone else cover their lease. If there’s a chance you’ll need to sublet your apartment, being aware of your landlord’s policy could help ensure your potential candidate meets their requirements.

Even if you don’t plan to leave during your lease, you may still want to know your apartment’s subletting policy. An extended travel opportunity or short-term job assignment could come your way — you just never know how life may surprise you.

Know the Best Questions to Ask When Renting an Apartment

With this list of key questions to ask when renting an apartment, you’ll be on your way to finding the best apartment fit for you. There are many factors to consider, but as you gather information, you’ll find each new detail helps narrow your search and puts you one step closer to your ideal apartment home.

Renters Insurance from American Family Insurance

While you’re apartment-hunting, consider the peace of mind that comes with renters insurance  from American Family Insurance. Our personalized policies offer protection for your belongings, even when you're on the go, in addition to liability coverage if someone is injured in your apartment. Feel free to contact an American Family Insurance agent or you can get a quote online. We’ll help ensure you’re covered no matter where you choose to live.

This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. You should contact a professional for advice specific to your situation.

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.