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Manhattan Apartment Rental 101 - - Apartment Rental Checklist

What You Need to Know Before You Sign A Lease

By Pamela Skillings, About.com

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The Apartment

  • Is the rent reasonable? Make sure you've seen other apartments in the same price range (or at least perused listings and talked to people to understand current rental trends). If it's the first apartment you've seen, think hard before committing unless you really love the place. If you're new to the NYC apartment-rental game, bring a savvy friend with you to provide some objective advice.

  • Is the apartment clean and freshly painted? If the landlord is promising to paint or renovate before you move in, exactly what will be done? Get it in writing.

  • Are the kitchen appliances clean and in working order? Test the refrigerator, stove, and other appliances to make sure everything’s in working order.

  • Is there enough cupboard and counter space in the kitchen?

  • Are there any signs of roaches or rodents? Look under the sink and around cracks and crevices.

  • Do the windows open and close properly?

  • Are there enough electrical outlets? Test the electrical outlets to make sure they all work.

  • Are there enough closets and are they large enough?

  • Can you live with the view and the amount of light in the apartment?

  • Do the bathroom fixtures work? Are there any leaks?

  • Are there any rules against painting or making other modifications to the space? If you’re thinking about remodeling or redecorating, make sure there are no rule that prevent you (or your landlord may take it out of your security deposit).

  • Is there excessive street noise or noise from nearby apartments?

  • Is the apartment cable-ready? Make sure the apartment is wired to support your cable TV or high-speed Internet habits.

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