So you found the perfect new place to rent - it's a super cool space, it's in the perfect location, and the price is right; until you met the landlord.
Before you commit to a lease and it's too late, first check out these 5 bad landlord warning signs by Apartment Therapy:
The areas outside the apartment are not up to par
Don't fall for the immaculate apartment you were shown during a tour - it probably is just a bait and the only good thing in the building. A good landlord will keep the landscaping outside, the lounge, or the laundry room in tip top shape since they contribute to the quality of life in the building. If the rest of the building seems surprisingly run down in comparison to what you were shown, then maybe the building itself isn't maintained or protected from danger.
There are signs of neglected maintenance
Little problems could indicate that the landlord is not doing his job in making the apartment in the best shape it can be. How the landlord deals with little things such as cracks in the ceiling or a dirty oven is an indication of how the bigger problems such as an infestation will be treated - meaning, nothing will be done about them.
You are having trouble getting ahold of the landlord
If you are already having a hard time getting the landlord on the phone before you even officially become a tenant, then just imagine how difficult it will be once you have a maintenance request? In most part, they are just quick with taking your money. It's a prelude to what the landlord will be for the duration of your tenancy if in as early as now, he is not returning your calls in a timely manner or isn't doing what he says he will.
He dodges your questions
A hallmark sign of a bad landlord is how he handles rental questions. Making general statements like "don't worry about it" and avoiding making specific ones should ring your alarm bell. A good landlord prioritizes your satisfaction as a tenant and is receptive to your concerns. When discussing with you about problems, he should be able to provide responsive answers that include plans and timelines on how they will be resolved.
The lease looks fishy
Look out for strange clauses in the lease contract that are too out of the ordinary. Do your assignment and investigate before you close the deal. Bad landlords are notorious for stacking in unusual charges onto your rent like building insurance costs, taxes, and all sorts of other fees which are not necessary and should really never be shouldered by tenants.
