What to Look for Before Signing a Lease

Renting a new place is exciting. You've found the perfect apartment, imagined where your furniture will go, and you're ready to make it home. But before you sign that lease, there are a few things worth checking.

1. Security Deposit Terms

Most leases require a security deposit — usually one or two months' rent. What matters is understanding:

• When you'll get it back — Is it 30 days after move-out? 60 days?
• What can be deducted — Normal wear and tear shouldn't count against you.
• How to document the apartment's condition — Photos and a written walkthrough can save you later.

2. Rent Increase Clauses

Some leases include language that allows the landlord to increase rent during your lease term. Look for phrases like "rent may be adjusted" or "subject to change."

If the lease is for a fixed term (like 12 months), your rent should typically stay the same for that period.

3. Early Termination and Penalties

Life happens. Jobs change. Relationships evolve. If you need to leave early, what are the consequences?

• Is there a penalty fee?
• Do you need to give 30, 60, or 90 days' notice?
• Can you sublet or assign the lease?

4. Maintenance Responsibilities

Who fixes what? In most cases, the landlord handles major repairs (plumbing, heating, structural issues). But some leases shift responsibility for smaller fixes to the tenant.

Make sure you're not agreeing to maintain things you shouldn't have to.

5. Entry and Privacy

Your landlord has the right to enter the property — but usually with notice. Check if the lease specifies:

• How much notice is required (24 hours is common)
• What situations allow entry without notice (emergencies)
• Whether you can refuse non-emergency access

The Bottom Line

A lease is a legal contract. Once you sign, you're bound by its terms. Take 15 minutes to read it carefully — or upload it to OpenClauses and let us explain it in plain English.

Don't sign blind.