Last year, more than 6,400 complaints were filed with the Better Business Bureau against apartment complexes and landlords throughout the U.S. and Canada. Some of the complaints made by renters involved being billed incorrectly or having trouble getting their security deposits back or getting repairs handled in a timely manner.
Your Better Business Bureau offers these tips:
Know your rights as a renter. Check with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to determine what the local renter laws are.
Make a list of what you can't live without and what you'd be willing to do without. This can help you prioritize what's important and not so important in a rental.
Make sure you visit different apartment locations. Don't rely on websites for details and pictures.
Don't sign a lease until you carefully review it. It should include details like rent due dates, if it's a yearly or month-to-month lease, what your security deposit covers and the conditions for deductions, as well as, conditions which may cause your rent to increase or fees to be added. Keep a copy for your records.
Look over the condition of the apartment before moving in. Make sure to document every flaw and defect and be sure to take photos of your unit.
Consider renters insurance. Landlords are rarely liable for your belongings if they're damaged or stolen. Pay attention to deductibles and coverage limits.
Determine how maintenance and repair issues are handled. For example, some apartment complexes consider lightbulb replacement to be the landlord's responsibility.
Don't pay cash. Pay by check or credit card when making the security deposit and rent. Typically the security deposit is first and last month's rent.
If you have any questions regarding apartment rentals, then you can always get help from your BBB, such as a list of BBB accredited rental and property management companies and business reviews on ones you’re considering. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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