94 Questions to Ask When Renting an Apartment

Not sure what questions to ask when renting an apartment?

Embarking on the journey to find a new apartment is both thrilling and daunting. It’s the promise of a fresh start, a new environment, and the beginning of a new chapter. But it’s also a significant commitment, filled with myriad details, terms, and conditions that can easily slip through the cracks if you’re not prepared.

Just like any major decision, the more informed you are, the better choices you’ll make. To ensure you’re not left with unexpected surprises after signing a lease, it’s vital to ask the right questions. But where do you start?

Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned apartment hopper, our comprehensive list of the best questions to ask when renting an apartment will guide you through the process, ensuring you find the perfect spot to call home.

Read on, take notes, and get ready to find your dream apartment with confidence.

Best Questions to Ask When Renting an Apartment

The Basics

1. What is the monthly rent?
2. Is there a required security deposit? If so, how much?
3. Are there any other upfront fees or deposits?
4. Are there any upcoming rent specials or promotions?
5. How long is the lease term?
6. How often does rent typically increase, and by how much?
7. Is renters’ insurance required?
8. What is the policy for breaking the lease early?
9. Are utilities included in the rent? If not, what’s the average cost of utilities?
10. Can I have a roommate? If yes, is there an extra fee?
11. What’s the policy on renewals and rent increases?
12. Is there any flexibility in the start date of the lease?
13. Are there any penalties for ending the lease early?
14. How are rent payments made? Is online payment an option?
15. Are there penalties for late rent payments?
16. What’s the policy on renewing the lease?
17. Can I sublet the apartment?
18. What’s the history of rent increases for this building?
19. Are there any move-in referral bonuses?
20. What is the eviction policy?
21. What is the move-in process like?
22. Are there restrictions on move-in/move-out times?
23. What’s the policy for returning the security deposit when moving out?

Pets

24. Are pets allowed? If so, are there breed or size restrictions?
25. Is there a pet fee or monthly pet rent?
26. Are there areas where pets are not allowed on the property?

Parking

27. What is the parking situation?
28. Are there parking fees?
29. Is there guest parking available?

Facilities, Building & Amenities

30. How do you handle maintenance requests?
31. Are there laundry facilities on-site?
32. Are there any immediate plans for construction or major renovations in the building?
33. What’s the process for getting repairs done?
34. Is there a 24-hour emergency maintenance service?
35. Are there additional fees for using any amenities?
36. Are there bike storage areas?
37. What is the bed bug history of the building?
38. What’s the history of major repairs or incidents in the apartment?
39. How often is the building inspected for safety and health issues?
40. Are there any known issues with mold or water damage?
41. How secure is the building?
42. How do deliveries work? Is there a package room or service?
43. Are there any immediate plans to sell the building or convert the apartments?
44. What happens if I lose my job or face financial hardship?
45. How is garbage and recycling managed?
46. How often are common areas cleaned?
47. How is the sound insulation between units?
48. Are there any known pest issues?
49. How often is pest control performed?
50. Is there storage space available?
51. Are there upcoming changes to the property or management?
52. How is snow removal handled?
53. Are there any ongoing disputes or legal issues with the building?
54. What is the average demographic of the residents?

Safety

55. How are emergencies handled?
56. Is there a sprinkler system or other fire safety measures in place?
57. How frequently are the locks changed?

Safety is paramount, you need to make sure you’ll be comfortable living here. If you’re new to living on your own, check out our apartment safety tips.

Decor & Living

58. Are units rented furnished?
59. What is the guest policy?
60. What’s the policy on personalizing or decorating the apartment?
61. Can I paint the walls?
62. Are there restrictions on mounting things to the walls?
63. Are there any restrictions on having a grill or outdoor furniture?
64. How energy efficient are the appliances and windows?
65. Can I install a security system?
66. How is the air quality in the apartment and the area?
67. Are there any restrictions on the types of plants I can keep?
68. How is the insulation? Will it be warm enough in winter and cool in summer?
69. How quickly does the water heat up?
70. How many outlets are in each room?
71. Is there a balcony or patio?
72. How is the ventilation in the apartment?
73. Are there any restrictions on running a home-based business?
74. How is the water quality?
75. Are there any common complaints from current residents?
76. How’s the natural lighting in the apartment?
77. Are the outlets conveniently located?
78. What kind of heating and cooling systems are in place?
79. Is the water pressure good in the shower and sinks?

Neighborhood

80. What’s the neighborhood like in terms of safety?
81. How is the cell phone reception in the area?
82. How is the internet speed and reliability here?
83. Are there community amenities like a pool, gym, or clubhouse?
84. What’s the community’s noise policy?
85. How are disputes between neighbors resolved?
86. How is the local public transportation?
87. Are there nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, or other essential businesses?
88. What schools are in the area?
89. Are there any green spaces or parks nearby?
90. Are there any community events or groups?
91. Are there places to walk or jog nearby?
92. Is it easy to hail a taxi or use rideshare services in this area?
93. Are there any current or planned construction projects nearby?
94. Are there farmers’ markets or community events nearby?

Final Thoughts: Questions to Ask When Renting an Apartment

In the world of apartment hunting, knowledge truly is power.

By arming yourself with these essential questions to ask when renting an apartment, you’re taking a proactive step towards ensuring your next home aligns perfectly with your needs and expectations.

Remember, every question you ask now is a potential headache avoided later. So, be thorough, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to seek clarity.

Happy apartment hunting, and here’s to finding a place that feels like home!