Ask Your Prospective Landlord These Questions, Because Otherwise They Won't Tell You

An apartment walkthrough is like a job interview.

And just like at a job interview, asking questions during your walkthrough is vital.

Here are six things to consider asking while touring your next potential new home.

What fees do they charge and how will they be handled?

Before embarking on your search, it is important to know the legal implications of the landlords policies.

Knowing the laws is also important when it comes to making sure the apartment is legal.

Some landlords will create or advertise apartments that violate the law.

verify to ask about exits, windows, and other safety concerns.

Ask the landlord or superintendent about their procedures for cosmetic and more serious fixes.

The same goes for pest control: It is the landlords responsibility to keep the space free of vermin.

Ask about all aspects of their policies on exterminations.

Landlords will often need to make routine repairs or changes that could result in short water or gas outages.

Ask the landlord how much advance notice they provide for apartment fixes.

We loved the apartment would have stayed another year; instead, we were left scrambling to move.

Some buildings or rental homes allow pets but have specific rules governing those tenants with pets.

It is worth a friendly ask over the phone or in person.

You want to confirm you are not inheriting damages or issues from the previous renters.

Askhow long the previous tenantswere in the space and what (if any) issues they had.

Some landlords will be forthcoming with their details, as they care about the space as much as you.