32 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease
Before signing, ask about the real move-in cost and deposit terms, the unit's condition and repair history, building rules, lease clauses on guests and breaking the lease, and how responsive the landlord actually is.
A lease is a document you'll live inside of for a year, and most of what goes wrong with a first apartment traces back to a question that didn't get asked before signing. This is the full list — grouped so you can run through it on a tour or a phone call without missing a category. Bring a notes app; a landlord who answers all of this clearly and specifically is telling you something good, and one who gets cagey is telling you something too.
Money
Why it matters: Rent is never just rent — fees and deposit terms decide the real monthly and move-in cost.
- What's the exact monthly rent, and what's included in that number?
- Which utilities do I pay, and roughly what do they run each month?
- What's the security deposit amount, and is it refundable?
- What conditions get me my full deposit back, in writing?
- How long after move-out do I get the deposit back, and by what method?
- Is there a late fee, how much, and after how many days?
- Are there application, admin, or amenity fees on top of rent?
The unit
Why it matters: You're inspecting the specific box you'll live in, not the building's reputation.
- Who handles repairs, and what's the typical response time?
- Has this unit had any pest issues in the past year?
- How old are the appliances, water heater, and HVAC system?
- Is there air conditioning, and is it included or an extra cost?
- Is there any history of water damage, leaks, or mold in this unit?
- What's included — blinds, light fixtures, in-unit washer/dryer?
- Will the unit be cleaned and any damage repaired before I move in?
The building
Why it matters: Your lease covers the unit; your daily life covers the whole building.
- How's noise between units — what's the building like on a weeknight?
- How are packages handled — a locker, a front desk, or the doormat?
- Is parking available, guaranteed, and what does it cost?
- Is laundry in-unit, shared in the building, or off-site?
- Is there guest parking, and are there restrictions on it?
- Is there elevator access, or is it stairs-only to my floor?
The lease
Why it matters: The lease is the actual rulebook — read it as one, not as a formality.
- What's the guest policy — how long can someone stay before it's an issue?
- Is subletting or short-term renting allowed under any circumstances?
- What's the early termination clause, and what would breaking it cost?
- What happens at renewal — is there a cap on the rent increase?
- How is 'normal wear and tear' defined versus chargeable damage?
- If I have roommates, is the lease joint, or is each person liable separately?
The landlord
Why it matters: You're not just vetting the apartment — you're vetting who you'll deal with for a year.
- What's the typical response time for non-emergency maintenance?
- Why is this unit vacant, or why did the last tenant leave?
- Am I dealing with the owner directly or a property management company?
- What's the best way to reach you, and what are normal contact hours?
- Are minor changes — paint, curtain rods, shelving — allowed?
- Can I see recent reviews or talk to a current tenant?
The other half: what to check in person
Asking is half the job — verifying is the other half. Water pressure, outlets, locks, and pest signs don't show up in a Q&A; they show up when you run the faucet and flip the switches yourself. The apartment tour checklist covers that hands-on inspection: 40 things to check in about fifteen minutes, plus the red flags worth walking away over.