Landlord-Tenant Relations
Getting to Know Your Landlord
Seek out firsthand information about the landlord. If the present tenants still occupy the apartment when you consider leasing it, they are likely to be a good source of information. It is also a good idea to check with next-door neighbors and friends in the area. Once you move into the apartment, make an effort to check in with your landlord from time to time.
Tenant Responsibilities
It is important for you to know your responsibilities as a tenant. If you are not familiar with your responsibilities, you may find yourself unintentionally breaking your lease agreement.
The Lease
You are responsible for reading the lease and agreeing
to its terms. Once you sign the lease, you generally are held to its terms
unless the terms are illegal.
Paying Rent
You are responsible for paying the rent on time.
Remember that most leases require that each tenant is responsible for
the entire amount of the rent. Therefore, if one of your roommates fails
to pay the rent one month, you could be responsible for paying the entire
rental amount for that month.
Care of Property
You and your roommates should work together with
the landlord and neighbors to keep the property clean and safe. Keep the
apartment clean and free of insects and rodents (e.g., dispose of your
garbage and recycling properly). Remember that you are responsible for
any damage done to the property by you or your guests.
Notice of Repairs
You are responsible for giving the landlord notice
of any needed repairs or maintenance. This is especially important when
the problem will cause additional damage unless it is promptly fixed.
You should also contact your landlord upon the notice of insects or rodents
in your apartment.
Right to Privacy
As a tenant, you have the right to privacy within
your apartment. However, your landlord may enter your apartment to make
necessary repairs, or to show the apartment to prospective tenants with
reasonable prior notice and at a reasonable time. In case of an emergency,
your landlord may enter your apartment without your consent