What should I do before moving into a rental?

Before you move into an apartment or another type of rental property, there are a number of different factors that you need to take into consideration. By this point, you have probably already decided that this is the unit you will be moving into and you have been in contact with the landlord. Hopefully, you’ve seen pictures or the unit itself, and read reviews about the complex. It is important that you read through your entire lease agreement, as long as it may be, before you move in.

In addition, it is important that you conduct a thorough inspection of the unit. It is important that you go through the unit with a checklist and actively test everything you need to. These include:

  • Water Pressure in the bathrooms and kitchen
  • Test out all of the outlets throughout the unit
  • Turn every light switch on and off
  • Lock and unlock all doors and windows
  • Test out air conditioning and heat
  • Look for bedbugs and any visible signs of mold
  • Make sure all appliances provided are working
  • Look for splintered floors or cracked tiles
  • Test out all smoke detectors
  • Make sure there are no leaks, holes, or cracks in the ceiling

Take photographs and notes about any issues you see and report them to the landlord immediately. This is important so you are not held liable for any damage. If you have any legal issues with a landlord, you should consult with an experienced attorney in New Jersey.

The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced attorneys throughout the states of New Jersey and Delaware. Please contact the office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding your specific case.