A third of Americans live in a rented home, and a significant portion of them are young adults, followed by seniors, empty nesters and families. Fortunately, in Cincinnati, there are homes for rent for all budgets and household types.
For instance, Industry Cincinnati is a beautiful community that is pet-friendly and has a co-working area, a pool, lounge and fitness center that can be rented out at a very reasonable price.
Looking for the perfect rental home can be exciting yet incredibly time-consuming, and there can be many things that you may miss out on and not see at first glance. Therefore, it is crucial to do a thorough check of the place before you agree to rent it. Here are a few things you should check before renting a home.
1. Carpets, Floors, Ceilings and Walls
Some of the first things you notice when entering a new apartment or home are the carpets, floors, ceilings and walls. It is common for these areas to have minor flaws like chipped paint or wood, or the walls could have pinholes from previous tenants, but you’ll want to make sure there aren’t any severe damages like tough stains on the carpet or large holes in walls.
Additionally, you can take pictures of the damages and email them to your landlord. This can serve as a record and evidence that you did not cause the damages, or else there’s a good chance you might be charged for them and deducted from your security deposit.
2. Plumbing, Temperature and Water Pressure
When doing an initial walkthrough, these aspects tend to go unnoticed even though they’re a predominant part of everyday living. Having unstable water pressure and temperature can really turn a day upside down. No one enjoys having a toilet that won’t flush properly or a shower that won’t drain well.
To test out the water pressure, you can feel it on your hand to make sure it is suitable. Ensure to flush all the toilets and run all the faucets. If you notice any problems, consult with your apartment management or landlord to check if the issues can be fixed before you move in.
3. Safety Equipment
You will have to make sure that the safety equipment in your potential home functions properly. It is crucial to make sure equipment like carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are in proper working condition.
To see if they’re working, check to see if the smoke detectors have a light on as the lights indicate it has power and works. If there is an issue, request your landlord to fix the safety equipment before you move in.
4. Pests
More often than not, pests like rodents, cockroaches and ants will end up finding their way into homes. It is highly unsanitary and can jeopardise your health if there are pests in your home. You have to be vigilant and look for any indications of pests when you first visit the property.
Look on top and inside cabinets and, check for feces, check to see if there are large holes or cracks on the walls or the baseboards; this is a perfect hiding spot for pests. If that isn’t enough, you can request your landlord to check recent pest control treatment.
5. Appliances
Do not overlook the stove and refrigerator; turn on the stove and check the refrigerator’s temperature. Even though it may seem as though there aren’t any damages, it is essential to test the kitchen appliances and make sure they work properly since they are used daily.
While you’re at it, make sure all the lights and plug points work. If the appliances do not work, talk to your landlord and decide how to go forward with repairs and upkeep.
6. The Lease
During the walkthrough, check and review the contract as the lease has all the agreement’s information and what is expected of you. Go through all the clauses; you don’t want to be surprised. For instance:
- Subletting: Most lease agreements require the landlord’s consent to sublet.
- Renovation: This too might require their consent.
- Your security deposit must be returned by two weeks to two months after the lease’s last day.
- Maintenance responsibilities, find out what you are in charge of and what the landlord’s repair and maintenance responsibilities are.
Conclusion
Before renting a home, be sure to check the surrounding amenities and access to things such as the parks, public transport, hospitals, etc. Likewise, focusing on inside the rental home is just as important. It’s not going to be good to realize small things are out of place and not working properly once you’ve moved in. Have a checklist in hand and go through them during the walkthrough.
Read More: Tips for Furnishing Your Home on a Budget
