Renters have certain rights throughout their rental term and should learn how to protect themselves by being aware of these rights and being proactive in upholding them. All too often, tenants encounter challenges with their landlords and are at a loss for what to do. Here are some tips that could help you protect yourself as a renter and be empowered throughout various aspects of the lease.
Compliance
It is crucial to fully understand the terms of your lease contract between you and your landlord. There is a tenant law in place to act as a safeguard for both parties involved. Check with your jurisdiction to make sure you are compliant with these laws and understand your responsibilities. Just about every jurisdiction mandates that the landlord provides access to the property at the agreed possession date, and violating this would be against the law. The landlord is also responsible for providing the renters with a quiet and safe property of which they may not enter the premises without notice. There is also a right to fair housing, which makes discrimination illegal on the basis of religion, gender, race, etc. for rental decisions.
Be Cautious of Scams
Before signing a lease with a landlord, carefully assess the listing. Property management scams are far too common, so you must proceed with caution.
Red flags include:
- The landlord asking for money before you even sign the lease agreement or view the property
- The property is priced so low it sounds too good to be true
- You are not asked to undergo any screening (ie. Credit checks, reference checks etc.)
- The individual acting as the landlord is seeking invasive personal details before meeting them
- The space is in extremely poor condition (there might have been a foreclosure)
- The “property manager” is avoiding questions regarding the property or their identity
Get Tenant Insurance
Renters insurance will be highly beneficial protection for anyone renting a space and may even be mandatory to secure the lease. Its purpose is to cover the tenant’s belongings in the event of a fire, theft, or flood. The specific protection plan will be dependent upon each policy. Sometimes tenants try to get away without this protection on the assumption that their landlords will cover the cost of damaged possessions. However, this is typically not the case. This plan allows you to choose one that fits your needs and will help you manage some devastating losses. As the renter, it is up to you to be prepared for your protective measures.
Ask For a Walk-Through Inspection
Make sure to do a walk-through inspection with the landlord before signing the final paperwork or moving in. This is one of the easiest ways renters can protect themselves. The goal here is to document the condition of the property before your possession.
When it comes time for the lease to end, you can prove the property’s condition and what you may or may not have caused. The landlord and renters should walk through the space and cross-reference the initial inspection report. Ideally, renters and landlords can decide what was truly the renter’s fault versus what is normal wear and tear. What you get back from your deposit is dependent on these walk-through inspections.
Understand the Lease Agreement and Terms
The landlord must provide a safe and secure rental unit for you to lease, including a space that is compliant with building codes, proper fire, electrical, and plumbing, including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and accessible exits. They must also stay up with repairs so that they are addressed promptly. All facilities should be maintained to avoid injury. It is crucial that you read through your lease agreement and truly understand every clause and term to help avoid penalties, violations, or causes for termination. What to look out for:
- Lease terms and notice periods
- Rent price and payment details
- What utilities may be included
- What you are permitted to have and do on or with the property (making improvements or having pets)
- What responsibilities may be expected of you (such as tending to the lawn)
- What responsibilities are on the landlord
Be sure to ask for clarification if you are unsure about anything. Understanding your rights as a tenant also means knowing your state’s laws for notices so that you give adequate notice before terminating the lease and help you avoid eviction.
It is also in your best interest to keep thorough documentation of your tenancy; if something goes wrong and you need to provide proof of records to protect yourself.
About Sine Insurance
At Sine Insurance Group, we are dedicated to providing you with custom-tailored insurance policies to protect your assets. Our comprehensive packages have been expertly crafted to serve St. Louis and the surrounding areas for the past 25 years. For more information about our products, contact us today at (855) 700-0889.