Before you sign off on any student apartment lease agreement, there are a lot of things to look at and consider. After all, you don’t want to rush into something that turns out to be a headache. Here are some things to keep in mind when moving off campus and signing a student apartment lease agreement.
What’s Included In The Rental Fee Of The Student Apartment Lease Agreement?
Some lease agreements include utilities like water and electricity while other do not. Since you’re likely on a budget, it’s wise to check what’s included and what’s not to save as much money as possible. If you’re unsure, ask the landlord or main office. Some places will let you park for free while others require a permit. If you’re heading to college with a car, this may be important to you. Other things to consider is whether or not there’s a separate charge for trash pickup and housekeeping services. Find out what the deposit fee is and what’s returned to you. Keep in mind that the only amount of damage typically allowed is natural wear and tear. And if you’re bringing along your loyal four-legged friend, find out the amount of the additional pet deposit. In sum, you want to cover all the financial bases when it comes to a student apartment lease agreement.
Subletting
Even if you’re not going to live in the apartment during the summer, most places require that you pay for those months. In this case, you can always sublet your place to other students who are staying for the summer. Some may be taking summer classes. Read your student apartment lease agreement to make sure the contract allows you to sublet. Plus, you’ll have to make sure that your roomies are cool with it. And if you do sublet, have the person sign a written agreement with your terms of the agreement. This way, you get your place back when the subletting period is over.
Who’s Responsible
Read your student apartment lease agreement carefully to see who’s responsible for what. For example, most college apartment complexes require a signature of a parent as the “lease guarantor.” The rights and obligations of the lease guarantor are the same as yours as the tenant.
Deposit Return
Check out the details of deposit returns. Can some of it be applied to unpaid rent or used to pay for damages? See what the landlord’s obligations are in the student apartment lease agreement for damages. There should be a requirement that the landlord must provide you with a written itemized statement showing the amount being deducted for any damages and an explanation. Be sure to provide your landlord with your forwarding address in order to receive any amount of deposit returns.
A student apartment lease agreement is a binding, legal contract. Once you sign on the dotted line, you’re responsible for its terms. Be sure to take the time to read it carefully. The folks at The Standard at Boone are always happy to review leases with potential residents. Give them a call today.