Questions to Ask New Apartment
Critical questions to evaluate an apartment's condition, costs, amenities, and lease terms before signing.
1What is the total monthly cost including rent, utilities, fees, and parking?
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What is the total monthly cost including rent, utilities, fees, and parking?
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Why this works
Clarifies all-in expenses and avoids surprise costs that exceed your budget.
2What utilities are included in the rent, and which am I responsible for?
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What utilities are included in the rent, and which am I responsible for?
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Why this works
Shows whether water, trash, electric, or internet are covered or separate.
3What is the security deposit amount, and under what conditions is it refundable?
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What is the security deposit amount, and under what conditions is it refundable?
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Why this works
Protects you financially and clarifies expectations for move-out.
4What is the lease term, and are there penalties for breaking it early?
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What is the lease term, and are there penalties for breaking it early?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand commitment length and exit options.
5What is the pet policy, and are there pet deposits or monthly pet rent?
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What is the pet policy, and are there pet deposits or monthly pet rent?
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Why this works
Clarifies whether pets are allowed and the associated costs.
6How is maintenance handled, and what is the typical response time for repairs?
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How is maintenance handled, and what is the typical response time for repairs?
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Why this works
Assesses whether the landlord is responsive or you'll be left with broken appliances.
7Are there any known issues with the unit—plumbing, electrical, appliances, pests?
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Are there any known issues with the unit—plumbing, electrical, appliances, pests?
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Why this works
Surfaces problems upfront so you're not surprised after moving in.
8What is included in the unit—appliances, washer/dryer, storage, furniture?
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What is included in the unit—appliances, washer/dryer, storage, furniture?
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Why this works
Clarifies what you'll need to buy or bring.
9Is renters insurance required, and do you have a recommended provider?
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Is renters insurance required, and do you have a recommended provider?
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Why this works
Ensures you budget for insurance and know the requirements.
10What are the parking options, and is there a waitlist or additional cost?
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What are the parking options, and is there a waitlist or additional cost?
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Why this works
Avoids parking headaches and unexpected fees.
11Are there laundry facilities in the unit or building, and what are the costs?
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Are there laundry facilities in the unit or building, and what are the costs?
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Why this works
Clarifies convenience and whether you'll need to use coin-op or laundromat.
12What is the noise level like, and have there been complaints from neighbors?
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What is the noise level like, and have there been complaints from neighbors?
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Why this works
Assesses livability and whether you'll deal with constant disturbances.
13How secure is the building—locks, cameras, controlled access, package delivery?
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How secure is the building—locks, cameras, controlled access, package delivery?
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Why this works
Ensures your safety and whether belongings are protected.
14What is the guest policy, and are there restrictions on overnight visitors?
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What is the guest policy, and are there restrictions on overnight visitors?
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Why this works
Clarifies whether you can have friends or partners stay over.
15How much notice is required to renew or terminate the lease?
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How much notice is required to renew or terminate the lease?
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Why this works
Protects you from auto-renewal clauses or short notice periods.
16Can I see a copy of the lease agreement before committing?
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Can I see a copy of the lease agreement before committing?
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Why this works
Ensures transparency and lets you review terms with an attorney if needed.
17What improvements or modifications am I allowed to make—painting, hanging art, etc.?
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What improvements or modifications am I allowed to make—painting, hanging art, etc.?
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Why this works
Clarifies how much you can personalize the space.
18How is trash and recycling handled, and where are the bins located?
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How is trash and recycling handled, and where are the bins located?
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Why this works
Assesses convenience and whether disposal is easy or a hassle.
19What is the move-in process, and when will I receive keys?
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What is the move-in process, and when will I receive keys?
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Why this works
Clarifies logistics and timeline for accessing the unit.
20Can I speak with current or former tenants about their experience?
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Can I speak with current or former tenants about their experience?
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Why this works
Provides unfiltered insight into management responsiveness and livability.
Apartment Hunting Essentials
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.