Posted 11:16 pm Sunday, February 24, 2013
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Check apartment ratings before renting
By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS
Tyler Better Business Bureau
BBB is advising consumers to be aware of their rights and responsibilities before signing an apartment lease.
According to the Texas Attorney General, tenants have a number of rights under Texas law, including peace, quiet, health, safety and security.
Tyler Better Business Bureau
BBB is advising consumers to be aware of their rights and responsibilities before signing an apartment lease.
According to the Texas Attorney General, tenants have a number of rights under Texas law, including peace, quiet, health, safety and security.
In addition, the Attorney General reminds tenants that they have certain responsibilities under the law as well, including paying rent in full and on time, proper upkeep of the property, giving notice before moving out, and supplying a forwarding address after a move.
BBB provides renters with the following suggestions:
BBB provides renters with the following suggestions:
- Check out the apartment with BBB first. Go to bbb.org to see the BBB Business Review of the apartment you are considering.
- Visit each complex in person before putting down a deposit.
- Tour all amenities to be sure they meet your needs.
- Keep a signed copy of the lease. Keep your lease in a safe place in case you need to refer back to it.
- Consider renters’ insurance. When a tenant’s belongings are damaged or stolen, the apartment complex is very rarely held liable. Renters insurance would cover your losses in the event of fire, burglary or other damage. Read the lease thoroughly.
- Check what normal maintenance you’re responsible for, what your security deposit covers, when payments are due and what fees are assessed if you’re late.
- Document your unit’s condition. Most apartment complexes provide a move-in checklist to document any damage. Walk through the entire apartment and write down every flaw or defect.
- Ask for repairs in writing. If you have trouble with maintenance requests, send the landlord a dated letter via certified mail. Keep a copy for your records.
- Continue paying rent. Do not stop paying your rent in order to force your landlord to make repairs.
For more information on how to be a savvy consumer, go to www.bbb.org. To report a fraud or scam, call the BBB Hotline at 903-581-8373.
