Taegan Lion
Ask questions. You absolutely need to know what is included in your tenancy and who is responsible for what items. Some landlords will allude to the services provided but you need an absolute answer. Important things such as who is responsible for pest control and/or will you be charged for it? Is appliance maintenance and repair included? Who is responsible for the AC filter and lawn maintenance. Make sure these things are written in your lease or in an addendum; ask for it if necessary. If it’s not in writing, it didn’t happen.
Read you lease well and make sure you are in total agreement with everything. If there is something you want changed ask the landlord if they will amend the lease. Ensure that you take complete inventory of the condition of the home and make a copy of what you wrote as to preexisting condition or damages and keep it in a safe place. This way if you are charged for the item you have proof to dispute it.
Contributors: April Kozlowski Palomino from Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate
