15 Questions To Ask When Touring An Apartment

Prospective renters should use this template as a guide to ask the most important questions when touring an apartment complex.

1. How Much Is Rent?

Typically, this will be the first thing that comes to mind for a prospective renter. You will want to know which apartments fit in your budget.

If you want an apartment that’s a bit more expensive, it’s wise to add a roommate or keep looking for more options. Knowing rent prices will make it quite easy to compare and contrast apartment complexes.

2. What Are The Lease Terms?

The terms outlined in the lease ultimately dictate everything from your security deposit, pet fees, to how long you can live in the apartment. The lease terms generally include everything a renter needs to know prior to moving in.

For instance, the terms will outline even simpler things like what color(s) you can paint the walls or what financial penalties you could potentially face for any violations.

3. What Are The Move-In Requirements?

Every landlord or property management group will require a few certain things upon move-in. This typically includes first month’s rent, pet rent, security deposits, etc.

At this time, you will most likely have to show proof of income. Depending on your location, the building may only allow move-ins on certain days of the week.

4. How Do I Pay Rent?

Landlords always expect to receive rent on time, but they may offer a grace period. Always remember to ask this important question before signing a lease.

Most apartments tend to accept rent via an online portal, by credit card, or by check. Be aware that some apartments may charge extra for credit card payments.

5. What Is The Neighborhood Like?

The surrounding neighborhood will undoubtedly be a big part of your lifestyle. It’s smart to ask this question as everyone has different preferences for their surroundings.

You’ll want to ask about any safety concerns or planned developments that could impact your final decision.

6. What Is Your Pet Policy?

If you wish to bring any furry friends to your new apartment, it’s necessary to ask about this ahead of time.

Start by asking if the complex is pet friendly. Then, you’ll also need to know if there are any breed restrictions, weight limits, or additional fees for bringing a pet along.

7. Is Renters Insurance Required?

While renters insurance is not legally mandatory, many landlords will require prospective tenants to have this coverage when signing a lease. Fortunately, buying renters insurance is a quick process.

Some types of insurance can take a long time to get, including health insurance that features a lengthy enrollment period. Renters insurance is quite different in that regard. With only a few steps involved, it is possible to get through the process in 15 minutes or less.

8. Are Utilities Included?

It’s simply a fact of apartment living that you will need utilities to have a fully-functioning, livable home. These must-have basic apartment utilities typically include the following:

• Electricity
• Natural gas
• Internet
• Water
• Trash and recycling
• Sewage

Other possible utilities can include:

• Cable
• Security systems
• HOA fees

9. What Do You Pay Upfront?

Typically, you will be responsible for application fees, security deposit, first month’s rent, last month’s rent, pet rent, and moving costs, if applicable.

10. How Much Is An Application Fee?

The average application fees will cost between $30-$75 per person.

11. How Long Do Apartment Application Fees Take?

The approval of an application for an apartment typically takes between 1-3 business days.

12. How Long Do Apartment Background Checks Take?

The amount of time it ultimately takes to screen a tenant will vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the screening process, availability of information, and the tenant’s responsiveness. Most background checks can be completed within just a few days or a few weeks.

13. Do You Pay A Security Deposit Before Signing A Lease?

Typically, prospective renters will pay the security when signing the lease. Property owners or management companies want this protection in place before handing over the keys to an apartment.

Renters will want this protection, as well. The majority of landlords will allow renters to take note of any damages or flaws of the property upon move-in. When these issues are recorded, the renters will not be at fault when their lease agreement expires. Always do an apartment walkthrough, taking notes and pictures of any noticeable issues.

14. How Does Maintenance Work?

Maintenance needs should be another top priority for renters, as well. Requesting a new appliance can be much different than basic maintenance needs at an apartment.

Ask your landlord how each need will be handled, from who you submit a request to all the way to how long most issues take to get resolved.

15. Do You Check Credit Scores?

Landlords will check your credit scores directly through one of the three credit bureaus, including Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Property management software platforms can also be utilized for these checks.