6 Things to Watch Out for When Renting an Apartment

​Apartment-hunting is an exciting adventure for first-timers, but it is best to avoid rookie mistakes. To help you find the perfect unit for yourself or your family, here are a few things you need to watch out for when renting your first apartment.

Ensure Safety from Theft
The first thing to check when apartment-hunting is the safety of the area from theft. Check for damaged doors. Check if windows are accessible to fire escapes. Check for possible entry and exit points that make your apartment prone to theft.

Check the apartment later at night to see if your new unit is vulnerable to theft.

Check the Neighborhood 
Location is a factor in apartment-searching. Find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. Also, try to observe and socialize with your neighbors to check if they may cause trouble once you have moved in. Researching the community’s crime rate also helps you decide if your family is safe when you are relocating into your new apartment.

You may have found a suitable apartment, but when the neighborhood is below par, it is advisable to move in elsewhere.

Familiarize Yourself with Maintenance
Sometimes, landlords fail to mention maintenance when talking to a potential client. However, it is vital for you to know if there are pending leaks inside the apartment they are going to move in. Also, you need to be wary of the damages that previous tenants have left behind.

Another option is to check if the building has a maintenance service. 

Be Aware of Pet Policy
Apartments have their rules and regulations about pets. Your contract can include a limit on how many pets you can have in your home or even disallow them. If the apartment allows pets, check if you need an additional deposit.

Observe the Living Condition
Check if your apartment is habitable. If the landlord shows the unit in the middle of renovations, do not sign a lease until the room is move-in ready. When checking the apartment, do a walk-through to see if the floor is creaking. Also, you must check if the paint on the walls is already showing signs of cracking.

Double-check the Contract
Double-checking the contract is the most important thing to do when renting an apartment. You must be aware of the duration of your lease as well to avoid any surprises. Also, make sure that you are aware of the regular rent increases.

Keeping in contact with the landlord will give you security in your stay at the apartment. An absentee or unresponsive landlord is a sign of trouble.

Finding a suitable apartment for your family comes with risks. If you happen to find your perfect apartment, you need to consider purchasing renter’s insurance as an added safety measure.

At AVA Insurance & Auto Tags, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (954) 454-5483 or  CLICK HERE to request a free quote.