The lease forms cover all of the important expectations, obligations, and rights of both the property owner and the renter. Unless the forms are properly written, read, and understood, there will be issues that will cause a strain in the landlord-tenant relationship.
Here are a number of things that these forms should spell out and that you as a renter need to understand before you sign the rental agreement. If some of these things are missing from the form, and you think they are likely to be an issue for you, ask your landlord for an addendum to the agreement that spells out the terms of the item.
- Any bills included in the rent. Who will pay the electric, gas, water, and or trash utilities? If the property owner pays these utility bills, is there a flat rate fee included in the tenants rent?
- Repairs. There are going to be problems, especially with a long-term lease. Pipes freeze and break, toilets clog, and appliances wear out. Who is responsible for fixing these problems, and in the event of serious damage as a result who is responsible for the repair bill.
- Improvements. If improvements need to be made, or are desired, what are the agreements for making these improvements? To what extent will the renters be reimbursed if they make improvements to the property? Is there a specific channel to request authorization for improvements? Will the proprietor furnish certain improvements at the renter’s request?
- Pets. What, if any, pets are the renters permitted to keep on the property? What are the rules about people who visit brining pets with them for the visit?
- Parking. What are the provisions for parking? Is there a limit to the number of vehicles that can be kept at the property?
- Guests. Is there a limit to the number of guests that are acceptable at one time? Are overnight guests permitted? How long may an overnight guest stay without being considered a roommate?
- Roommates. Can roommates be added to the rental agreement? What is the procedure to add a roommate? What limit is placed on the number of roommates that can occupy the property at one time?
Taking the time to ensure these things are spelled out and understood before the rental period begins will make for a smoother lease for the landlord and the tenant alike.