|
A lease is an agreement that outlines the obligations of the owner and the tenants
of a house or apartment. It is a legally binding document that courts will generally
uphold in legal proceedings, so it is important for you to know the exact terms of
the lease agreement before you sign it. The lease should state every agreement that
you believe exists between you and the landlord. Some things to look for in a lease:
- Clauses that allow the landlord to change the terms of the lease after
it is signed
- Requirements/responsibilities of the tenants to do routine repairs such as
lawn maintenance, cleaning or notification of repairs
- Restrictions that would prevent you from living normally or comfortably in
the home
- Term of the lease and any important dates such as when the rent is due, or
garbage pick up days
Anything that is not clearly understood or agreeable should be changed or removed.
All landlord responsibilities should be clearly stated. Always get a copy of the
signed lease to keep in your records. Any clause or terms in the agreement affects
ALL parties who sign.
Tenants who lease or rent property are protected against discrimination by The Fair
Housing Act. If you think your rights have been violated, you may write a letter or
telephone the HUD office nearest you. You have one year after the alleged violation
to file a complaint with HUD, but you should file as soon as possible.
Each state has its own tenant rights, laws and protections. For a state-by-state
directory, visit www.hud.gov/local. You can also find public housing that is
available at www.hud.gov. The agency offers several
housing assistance programs for tenants and landlords.
|
Ten Tips for Renters
- The best way to win over a prospective landlord is to be prepared by
bringing with you a completed rental application; written references
from previous landlords, employers, friends and colleagues; and a current
copy of your credit report.
- Carefully review all the important conditions of the lease before
you sign.
- To avoid disputes or misunderstandings with your landlord, get
everything in writing.
- Ask about your privacy rights before you sign the lease.
- Know your rights to live in a habitable rental unit-and
don't give them up.
- Keep communication open with your landlord.
- Ask about your privacy rights before you sign the lease.
- Purchase renter's insurance to cover your valuables.
- Make sure the security deposit refund procedures are spelled
out in your lease or rental agreement.
- Learn whether your building and neighborhood are safe, and what you
can expect your landlord to do about it if they aren't.
- Know when to fight an eviction notice and when to move. Unless you
have the law and provable facts on your side, fighting an eviction
notice is usually shortsighted.
|
|
