What to check in a lease before you sign
A lease is a contract you’ll live inside for a year or more. Ten minutes of careful reading can save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of stress.
Get everything in writing
Anything the landlord or agent promises out loud (a fresh coat of paint, a fixed dishwasher, “we never actually charge that fee”) only counts if it’s in the lease or a signed addendum. If it matters to you, ask for it in writing.
The clauses that matter most
1. Rent, due date and late fees
Confirm the exact monthly amount, when it’s due, how you can pay, and what happens if you’re late. Look for a grace period and how big the late fee is. Some places cap late fees by law.
2. Security deposit
Check how much it is, where it’s held, and the conditions for getting it back. Many states limit how much a landlord can charge and set a deadline for returning it after you move out.
3. Lease length and renewal
Watch for automatic renewal clauses. Some leases renew for another full term unless you give notice 30, 60 or even 90 days before the end. Put that date in your calendar the day you sign.
4. Breaking the lease early
Life happens. Find out what it costs to leave early: a fixed fee, rent until the unit is re-rented, or the full remaining rent. Also check whether you’re allowed to sublet or find a replacement tenant.
5. Repairs and maintenance
Check who fixes what, how to submit requests, and how quickly emergencies are handled. Be cautious of leases that push major repairs (appliances, plumbing, heating) onto the tenant.
6. Utilities and extra fees
Which utilities are included? Are there parking, pet, trash, amenity or “admin” fees on top of the rent? Add these up. They can change which apartment is actually cheaper.
7. Entry and privacy
Check how much notice the landlord must give before entering, except in emergencies. Many places set a minimum by law, and 24 hours is common.
8. Rules on pets, guests and alterations
Look for limits on guests staying over, whether you can paint or hang shelves, and the pet policy, including any breed or weight limits.
Red flags
- Pressure to sign immediately, or to pay before seeing the unit in person.
- Blank spaces in the lease “to fill in later.”
- Clauses saying you give up your right to repairs or to getting your deposit back.
- Requests to pay by wire transfer, gift card or crypto, which are classic rental scam signs.
Bring this checklist to your next viewing
- Total monthly cost, including all fees and utilities
- Deposit amount and the conditions for getting it back
- Late fee and grace period
- Renewal notice deadline
- Cost of breaking the lease early
- Who handles which repairs, and how to request them
- How much notice the landlord gives before entering
- Any verbal promises written into the lease
Sources
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Tenant laws vary a lot by state, city and country. Check your local tenant rights resources or a tenant union if you’re unsure about a clause.