Dad's Quick Take
Read every page. Confirm the rent, due date, and late fees; the lease length and how to renew or break it; the deposit terms; who pays which utilities; and the rules on guests, pets, and repairs. If something's verbal, get it in writing.
The clauses to read twice
- Rent & late fees — amount, due date, grace period, and the penalty if you're late.
- Lease term & breaking it — start/end dates, renewal, and the cost to leave early.
- Security deposit — how much, and the exact conditions to get it back.
- Utilities — which ones you pay vs. the landlord.
- Maintenance — how to request repairs and who's responsible for what.
- Rules — pets, guests, subletting, smoking, noise.
Never sign if…
…the numbers don't match what you were told, key promises aren't in writing, or you're pressured to sign 'right now.' A real landlord will give you time to read it.
Questions to ask before you sign
- What exactly is included in the rent?
- How and when do I get my deposit back?
- How do I submit a repair request, and what's the response time?
- What's the penalty if I need to move out early?
- Is renters insurance required?
Common questions
Can I negotiate a lease?
Sometimes — especially on move-in date, minor repairs, or a longer term for slightly lower rent. It never hurts to politely ask.
What if I don't understand a clause?
Ask the landlord to explain it in writing, or have a trusted adult read it. Never sign something you don't understand.