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| Leasing a home? Answers to common questions. |
Answer: Painting is regarded as a permanent change and written permission is needed before proceeding. The owner will probably also want to approve the color. It is best to keep a copy of the written permission on file to protect yourself against losing part of the security deposit.
Question: Our children really want a dog. Is this going to be okay?
Once again it is going to be necessary to get written permission from the owner or property management company before getting a dog. Some will want you to pay a refundable pet deposit and others will require a non-refundable pet deposit. The owner has the right to refuse any pets if not negotiated into the initial lease. You may also need to contact your rental insurance company to inform them about the dog to protect yourself.
Question: Do I really need insurance since I am renting and what type do I need?
Answer: Renters insurance is highly recommended and may be required by the lease. It is not all that expensive since you can only insure what you own. The owner insures the actual home and you simply insure your contents. Rental insurance will also provide liability protection in case someone gets hurt on the property (think neighborhood children and trampolines!).
Question: Bugs! I hate them! Who takes care of this problem?
Answer: The homeowner is responsible for protecting his investment against termites. The renters (tenants) are normally responsible for any ongoing monthly or quarterly treatments. If there is an infestation (very large and obvious problem) at the beginning of the lease, the owner will normally address this per wording in the lease documents.
Question: Fire ants?
Answers: These are the tenant's responsibility.
Question: Who pays the Home Owner Association fees? The HOA fees need to be paid before I can get the pool keys.
Answer: This is assumed to be the responsibility of the owner. Some privately leased homeowners try to use this as a negotiation point, but the fees should normally paid by the homeowner. Have this clarified in the lease.
Question: I don't want to lose my security deposit! From your experiences, what are the most common claims against the security deposit?
Answer: The most common claims are scratched hardwoods, dirty ovens, excessive picture holes in the walls, carpet stains, unapproved changes such as painting, removing wall paper or light fixtures and pet damages.
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Paul Wetzel BIC. 286-1177.
