Many landlords who faced moratoriums on rent collections during the pandemic are taking added steps in the screening process. This, of course, has a direct impact on renters and often, those who need it most. Even though COVID is past the added steps still remain

So where does that leave renters? Whether you are a first or a season renter, being aware of the new process will help make the search process more fruitful. Here’s what you can expect. 

#1 The Background Check - Landlords are putting applicants through thorough screenings that can include credit check and prior rental and mortgage payment history. 

#2 Rental Insurance is a Must - You will need to arrange to get Rental insurance for the unit or home you are going to be a tenant in. Don’t worry about it being expensive as most will cover up to $250,000 for less than $250/quarter for coverage. 

Most Landlords require proof of insurance but after you get it then showing them proof is easy enough so don’t sweat it.

#3 What to look for when searching for your new home 

A. Apartment Bldg Security. If it’s an apartment building what type of access is there to the building. Look to see if it requires a keyfob to get in or a key to enter the building. Also look for the security cameras and ask them if there is a recording of all activity by those cameras. You want to know this such that if there is an incident you can get access to the recording for any possible police action or if your lawyer needs to see it.

B. Single home security. If it’s a home ask if they allow you to install a camera on the door(s). You want to have peace of mind that if something happens you have a way to cover yourself just in case the landlord has an issue w/the incident or if police need to know.

C. Common areas. These are the responsibility of the landlord to take care of (walkways, laundry rooms, entrances etc.) so be sure to look and see if they are well lit and don’t have any hazards that could cause you to have a problem using them.

Hot water access. In newer buildings most apartments have their own Hot Water tanks but in buildings that are over 50 years its likely that the source is one large tank in the basement. In those cases if you get a bill for water usage along with your rent be aware that it will take more water than normal to get hot water & depending on how far up you are in the building will determine how much water it will take.

D. Parking access. If the building or home has dedicated parking look at how much that parking costs vs parking on the street and if you would have consistent access to street level parking. Depending on where you live will determine whether its cost effective to pay for the dedicated parking or not.

#4 Guest Allowances - If you’re renting for college, be sure to check with the landlord when you are sitting down to sign the lease and find out the max time you can have a guest in the unit with you. 

I was in college too and know sometimes friends get in a bind and need to crash for a bit. Problem is that if they are there beyond the max guest limit time than can put you in lease violation and the landlord has the option to evict for breach of lease.

Now don’t let any of what I have said so far scare you off from renting. It’s easy to do but you have kept a level head on your shoulder and don’t get stuck in a lease that has you in over your head on the monthly costs.

#5  What Utilities Are you Responsible For? - Look at the utilities that they cover vs the ones you have to pay for. Power & Gas/Oil is rarely covered and cable/internet is rarely covered. So be sure to get in touch with the local utility that provides all. They might require a deposit but again you will get that back if they do.

Also be aware if you have any medical conditions that require prescriptions etc. where you can get them filled or any medical services that you need that are close to the unit/home you are renting.

While the rental environment today has changed, being informed will help you avoid aggravation and time wasted. After all, finding your new home should be an uplifting experience.

If you have any questions about Rentals and any pitfalls you may encounter don’t hesitate to contact me at contact-me@macdunlap.attorney and we can see how we can solve your issue