Mr. Fix It

  • Does the landlord or maintenance person live on the premises?
  • Is there a 24-hour maintenance service? Who would you call with an emergency after hours? Is there a phone number at which the landlord or superintendent can be reached in case of an emergency?
  • What is the policy on maintenance of both minor and major damages?
  • Are there any known bug or rodent problems? What are the extermination policies?
  • Does the apartment contain lead paint?
  • Have there been any major repairs or renovations done in the past year? Are there any planned for the upcoming year?
  • Who will be responsible for repairs, including small ones?
  • Is a discount available if you do maintenance yourself?
  • Who takes care of the common ground areas?
  • Who is responsible for removing snow and ice in the winter and garbage year-round?


Utilities

  • What utilities must you pay?
  • Who pays for utilities and how much do they cost?
  • Is heat included in the rent, or do you pay for it? (If you are responsible for the costs of heating the apartment, get more than an approximation of what these costs are likely to be—ask to see a statement.)
  • Is the apartment heated with gas or with electricity?
  • Are janitorial services offered?


Miscellaneous

  • What is the policy/cost for parking? How many spaces are available?
  • What is your pet policy? Are there extra charges for having a pet?
  • What are the nearest grocery stores, coffeehouses, dry cleaners, health clubs, restaurants, bars, banks, gas stations, libraries, and parks?
  • How close is public transportation?
  • Are most of the other tenants in the building single, married, or families? Professionals or students?
  • Is there additional storage space elsewhere?
  • Have you or when will you change the lock on the door from the last tenant?