Being a renter means you’re paying to live in an apartment that isn’t legally yours. This is why it’s important to be accustomed to your rights and responsibilities as a renter. Knowing all this will help you have a great experience as a renter. Therefore, here is a mini guide that will show you all the important things that you must be aware of when renting an apartment.
Notice of entry is your right
You have the right to be notified before every time your landlord enters the apartment. Despite them being the owner, you are actually paying to be there, hence, you deserve to enjoy your privacy to the maximum. This is why timely communication is something that both sides should stick to. In case of entry, however, the landlord should always call you or text you, ideally a day before they decide to come.
You should keep the apartment in good condition
As a renter, it is your job to keep the apartment clean and sanitary. That means, regular declutter, vacuum cleaning and dusting, as well as, deep cleaning. Also, be sure to handle all the appliances with maximum care, so they won’t malfunction. Although your landlord should ensure that everything is in order, you as a renter, should treat the place with consideration and care.
You have the right to know all the information beforehand
You should be presented with all the relevant information, while you’re looking for an apartment. This includes the price of rent, whether the apartment is furnished and of course, location. In the past few years, many people decided to move to Texas, as this state offers so many opportunities for studying, work and entertainment. For example, Texas is also known as the live music capital of the world.
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Your responsibility is to ask important questions
Sure, the landlord should always notify you about all the important information, but if you want to know anything besides basic facts, it’s your responsibility to ask such questions. This will help you be more relaxed, knowing that everything is taken care of. Besides, asking additional important questions can help you establish a good relationship with your landlord.
When both sides stick to their part of the deal, the relationship that comes out of such a transaction will be much smoother and more civil.
You have the right to fair housing
No landlord should discriminate against their tenants on the grounds of race, gender, marital status, sexuality, nationality or religion. Therefore, if you believe that your landlord has evicted you due to one or more of these criteria above, then it’s crucial to notify relevant authorities. You have all the right to pursue legal action if you’re certain that you’ve been discriminated against by your landlord.
Your obligation is to notify your landlord about issues with the property
Sometimes, problems with the property happen whether we want that or not. If there’s a water leak, for example, then it’s your obligation to promptly notify your landlord, so they’ll be able to take action and help you. Renting property is an agreement between you and your landlord, and in case something unexpected happens, then you’re the one who should raise concerns and ask for help. On the other hand, the landlord’s job is to fix any issue.
You have the right to get the proper eviction notice
The landlord should always provide you with timely eviction notice. These matters should also be put into writing, and also be explicitly mentioned in the lease. A minimum amount of notice is usually from 30 to 60 days, as that is enough time for you to find a new apartment and pack all your belongings. If you’re going to be evicted, for whatever reason, you should have enough time to find a new place and sort out everything else.
You’re responsible for fixing damage due to your negligence or misuse
Of course, the landlord should always handle mishaps, but sometimes, a renter can neglect or misuse something, and that might lead to damage. For example, if you break the window, then the repair costs should be your responsibility. This is extremely important, and always make sure to point that out to your landlord, in case something like that happens.
Being a renter means you have rights, but also responsibilities. These are some of them that you should know about before you rent someone else’s property. Knowing your rights and obligations will help you have a cordial relationship with your landlord.
