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The landlord and tenant relationship is viewed by many people as inherently adversarial. What is
good for the landlord is bad for the tenant and vice versa.
I believe this thinking generally is wrong, and it surely leads at times to unnecessary tension
and conflict. Most landlords operate in a very competitive environment where they need to make their
offerings as appealing as possible to prospective tenants. Tenants need good, affordable housing.
These interests need not collide.
In the interest of minimizing possible conflict between landlords and tenants, Community Legal Services
recommends this checklist for home and apartment renters:
- Be sure the dwelling meets your needs and fits your budget.
- Before moving in, check the dwelling for defects and damage. Prepare a list of the damages and
review it with your landlord. Both you and the landlord should sign the list. This will help ensure
you are not charged for damages that were present before you moved in.
- If the landlord promises to make needed repairs, get this in writing.
- Determine whether you or the landlord is responsible for utility costs, including water, gas
and electricity.
- Find out if a security deposit, a cleaning deposit, or both, are required. Establish the amount
of the deposits. If a cleaning deposit is required, determine whether it is non-refundable when
you move out.
- Understand the landlord's rules and regulations, and be sure you can live with them. Pay particular
attention to restrictions concerning pets, parking, common areas and overnight guests.
- Know what you are signing before you sign it. Most rental agreements and leases may be either
oral or written. If you will be signing a written agreement, be sure that all blank spaces are
filled in. Also, the document should include provisions covering all the terms of the agreement
with the landlord.
Notwithstanding your best efforts, any relationship can go sour. If, however, you do proper planning
and keep lines of communication open, you will greatly lessen the likelihood of an unpleasant rental
experience.
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