Questions to Ask Properties
Choosing the right property starts with making sure it fits your needs and priorities. Asking the right questions can help you compare options and feel confident in your decision. Here are sample questions to guide you as you evaluate properties:
Application & Leasing Process
- What is the application process, including requirements for applicants and co-signers/guarantors?
- When will I be notified of my approval status?
- Can I review a sample lease before signing?
- When will I receive the lease to sign?
- Is there a difference in cost if I do not have a guarantor?
- What move-in date options are available?
Rent, Fees & Payments
- What is the monthly rent?
- Is rent charged per bedroom or for the entire unit?
- What fees and costs should I expect during the application and move-in process (application fees, administrative fees, deposits, etc.)?
- Which fees and deposits are refundable, and what are the requirements for receiving a refund?
- Are there any move-in specials or promotions?
- Are there deadlines to receive promotional pricing?
- What payment methods are accepted for rent?
- When is the rent due?
- Is there a grace period for late payments?
- What late fees apply, and when do they take effect?
- What fees or charges may be assessed at move-out?
Utilities
- What utilities and services are included in rent (water, electricity, internet, cable, pest control, etc.)?
- Is internet service provided?
- How are utilities billed and paid?
- Will I need to set up my own electric or other utility services?
- Are there any required providers? If yes, who are they?
Lease Terms & Policies
- What type of lease do you offer (by bedroom or unit)?
- How long is the lease term?
- Are shorter lease options available? If so, is there an additional cost?
- Does the property allow subleasing, and are there fees or requirements associated with subleasing?
- What options are available if I need to terminate my lease early, and what fees or penalties apply?
- Are pets allowed? If yes, are there pet fees, deposits, or monthly charges?
- Is renters’ insurance required? Do I have to use a property-specific policy or can I find my own policy?
- What is the guest policy?
- What is the smoking/vaping policy?
- What are the community’s quiet hours and noise policies?
Roommates & Community Living
- How does roommate placement work, including roommate requests and roommate matching?
- What happens if there is a roommate conflict?
- Are room changes available, and are there fees associated with changing rooms?
- How can residents report issues with roommates or neighbors?
- How does management address roommate and neighbor disputes?
- Does the property organize community events? If so, what types of events are offered?
Features & Amenities
- What floor plans are available?
- Is the unit furnished, and are there any additional furniture-related costs?
- What amenities are offered (pool, fitness center, study rooms, etc.)?
- What are the hours of operation for amenities?
- What package and mail delivery options are available?
Location & Transportation
- Where is this property located in proximity to campus?
- Is there a shuttle to campus operated by the property?
- What bus routes serve this property? Where is the nearest bus stop?
- How often do buses run?
- Do I have to walk through an unlit area to get to the bus stop?
Parking
- How does parking work at the property?
- Is parking included in my rent, or is a permit required?
- Are parking spaces assigned?
- What are the parking costs?
- Is guest parking available?
Maintenance & Property Upkeep
- How old is the apartment community or rental property?
- When was the property last renovated or remodeled?
- What are the most common maintenance issues reported by residents?
- How do residents submit maintenance requests?
- How quickly are emergency maintenance requests typically addressed?
- How is pest control handled?
- How does the property handle bed bugs?
- What are the most common pest issues?
- Do maintenance or pest control staff enter units without notice?
Safety & Security
- What security features are provided?
- Is there a security officer or a patrol service? If so, what support do they provide?
- Is the community gated? How is access controlled?
- What is the most common safety concern reported by residents?
- Do exterior doors and windows have appropriate locks and security features?
- Are bedroom doors lockable, and can residents install additional locks?
- How can residents verify that locks have been changed between occupancies?
- Has the property experienced crime incidents? If so, how were they addressed?