4 Key Things to Be Aware of Before Signing a Rental Agreement.
Before you sign a rental agreement for your new home, there are four essential points you should be well aware of as a tenant. These critical checks are necessary to prevent potential disputes with your landlord once you've moved in. Starting from minor issues like repairs and bills to unexpected rent increases, it's vital to address these concerns within the rental agreement to ensure a smooth and hassle-free tenancy experience.
Here are a few key aspects and clauses that should not be overlooked when you enter into a rental agreement:
Thoroughly Review the Agreement:
While it may seem obvious, many tenants either do not carefully read the entire agreement or struggle to understand the legal jargon used in it. There are times when tenants find themselves perplexed by the language and provisions of their rental agreement. Simply assuming that everything promised verbally by the landlord is reflected accurately in the agreement can be unwise. If you are having trouble deciphering the clauses, it is advisable to seek legal counsel for clarification.
Verify Landlord Details:
Confirming the landlord's details goes beyond just checking their background. It's essential to scrutinize the particulars on the documents before you sign the agreement. Make sure that the individual you've been communicating with as the landlord is the same person who signs the agreement with you. Instances have occurred where landlords have delegated property management to relatives or caretakers who subsequently lease it to third parties without the property owner's knowledge. Therefore, it's crucial to verify all landlord details, including the title documents.
Transparent Overhead Charges:
In many cases, new properties constructed by reputable builders come equipped with amenities like power backup, water tanks, and other utility services. However, tenants should not rely solely on verbal information about overhead charges. These expenses should be clearly and explicitly outlined in the agreement. Tenants should diligently review these charges before putting pen to paper.
Clearly Define Damage and Repair Costs:
It's of utmost importance to explicitly outline the terms related to damage and repair costs in the rental agreement before moving in. This is critical, as unforeseen damages upon vacating the property can potentially incur substantial expenses.
Reading and understanding these fundamental points within your rental agreement is essential to prevent any discrepancies with your landlord down the road.
