Take notice of the do’s and don’ts of apartment hunting
Whether you are a student looking for a place to live or your job has transplanted you somewhere new, searching for an apartment can be a daunting task. Better Business Bureau’s across the country receive hundreds of complaints against apartment complexes every year, consistently placing the apartment industry on BBB’s top 25 list of most complained about industries.
Of the hundreds of complaints received last year, most allege consumers were billed incorrectly, unhappy with the condition of their unit at move- in, and had difficulty getting repairs handled in a timely manner or getting their security deposits back.
Before signing any lease, make sure you read through the terms carefully and understand your responsibilities as an apartment tenant. Make sure the following information is included in your lease:
Specifics about how all maintenance and repair concerns are handled and within what timeframe. For example, some communities include light bulb replacement as the landlord’s responsibility, others may not.
Information about what your security deposit covers and the conditions for deductions.
The conditions under which your rent or other fees can be increased during your lease term.
Information about whether you are allowed to sublet your unit.
When monthly payments are due and where rent can be paid.
What insurance cover- age, if any, is included.
A complete breakdown of what costs you would incur in the event you have to break the lease. In some cases the cost can be tens of thousands of dollars.
Upon move- in, do not forget to document the condition of your apartment. Make sure to include each and every flaw or defect in your apartment so you are not held responsible for those damages later. It’s advisable to take photos of your unit prior to move- in so you have documentation available in case a dispute arises after move- out.
BBB of Greater Houston also suggests renters:
Check out the apartment with BBB first. Go to www. bbbhouston. org to see the BBB Business Review of the apartment community you are considering. This will show its BBB rating, any history of complaints, as well as contact information.
Visit each complex in person before putting down a deposit. Tour all amenities to be sure they meet your needs ( swimming pool, work- out center, parking, etc.). Websites often use pictures taken from only the best locations on the property or of model units.
Try to view your actual unit before move- in. We’ve seen cases where tenants stated their units were a far cry from the decked out models they were originally shown. Ideally, you should view your unit before you complete an application and place your deposit. While this isn’t always possible, at the very least, you can ask the leasing agent to show you another vacant unit of the same plan you intend to lease.
Know your rights as a renter. Check with your local regulatory agency to see what the renter laws are that apply to your area. Housing codes, which govern apartment rentals, are set by local authority — city, county or state. If you reside within the city of Houston, you may contact the Houston Service Helpline at 311 for more information.
Consider renters insurance. When a tenant’s belongings are damaged or stolen, very rarely are apartment complexes held liable. Renters insurance would cover your losses in the event of fire, burglary or other damage. Pay attention to deductibles and coverage limits when choosing a policy.
The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. For more information or to check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visitwww. bbbhouston. org or call 713- 8689500. Monica Russo is manager of Investigations and Trade Practices with the Better Business Bureau of Metropolitan Houston and South Texas. Send questions regarding homeowner issues to Monica Russo, Better Business Bureau, 1333West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e- mail her at mrusso@ bbbhou. org. Include mailing address and phone number on letters and emails.