Pro Tip: Talk to your local Farmers Mutual agent about how Renters Insurance may benefit you and how pairing this type of coverage with an Auto Policy may qualify you for our Multi-Policy Discount.
Renting comes with some great benefits. If you’re looking to rent a space, it’s helpful to understand what you’re getting yourself into before you sign on the dotted line. Here are some questions to ask as you navigate the process.
Budgeting
- How much money am I willing to allocate toward rent? Utilities? Furniture? Pet rent? Security deposit?
- Which utilities am I responsible for and which will my landlord pay?
- What fees will be associated with moving? (moving vehicle rental, packing supplies, moving company, etc.)
Complex
- What part of town do I want to live in?
- How many bedrooms do I need/want? Bathrooms?
- What are some additional features I would like the complex to have such as a gym, pool, secure package area, or entertainment space?
- What is the commute like to and from the places I frequent such as work, grocery stores, schools, etc.?
- Are pets allowed? If so, are there any size/weight restrictions? Pet rent?
- What is the policy for regular maintenance and/or emergency maintenance?
- How much notice will be given by the landlord before entering the property?
- Are there elevators?
- What is the policy regarding subletting?
- What lease lengths are available?
- What is parking like at this location?
- What is the guest policy?
- When is the rent payment due and what are accepted methods of payment? (electronic fund transfer, credit/debit card, paper check, money order, etc.)
- Will my rent increase? If yes, by how much and when?
Leasing a Unit
- What is the application process for securing a unit at this complex?
- What floor do I want to live on?
- What units are available, and when is the earliest I could move in?
- What features of the apartment are non-negotiable for me? (in-unit laundry, dishwasher, deck or patio, walk-in closet(s), etc.)
- What changes can I make to the unit? (painting the walls, hanging photos, etc.)
- How much notice am I required to give before vacating the unit or renewing my lease agreement?
- What is the policy for getting out of my lease?
- Is Renters Insurance required?
Common Rental Terms
- Deposit: A one-time fee generally required by the rental complex that they will hold to account for any damage that may be sustained during your term of stay or for cleaning services. If no damage is sustained, the deposit is usually returned—less any applicable cleaning charges or unpaid balances—upon conclusion of the lease period and vacating of the property.
- Landlord: The owner of the property you are renting.
- Lease: A contract between you and the property owner that outlines terms and conditions you both must adhere to while you are renting the property.
- Rent: What you will pay for an apartment, condo, or house to lease the property.
- Utilities: The other expenses you may be billed for regularly such as water, trash and sewer, electricity, gas, internet, parking, etc.
Renting is a great option for a lot of people, so knowing the key questions to answer can ensure that your next home is exactly what you’re looking for. Learn more about Renters Insurance offered through Farmers Mutual of Nebraska.
