7 Places Landlords Always Check When You Move Out

Publish Date: June 1, 2023

Last Modified Date: June 7, 2023

Category: Apartment Life, Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: apartment cleaning, apartment deposit, apartment security deposit, cabinets, clean apartment, cleaning, deposit, doorknob, dusting, getting security deposit back, hard water, how to get deposit back, landlord, landlord check, landlord walkthrough, move out day, moving out, security deposit, shower, sink, toilet, where landlords check, where to clean

So your old apartment is empty. The last box, the last chair, and the last potted plant are on the moving truck. You’ve swept the floors, vacuumed the carpets, and taken out the trash. The place looks just like it did when you moved in.

Or does it?

Before your landlord gives you your security deposit back they’re going to give your old pad a thorough inspection. And there are places tenants tend to overlook that landlords always check. Here are 7 of those areas you’ll need to look over — and clean — to make sure you get that deposit money back.

1. Refrigerator

While you might have eaten, thrown out, or put all the salvageable food into a cooler already, there are some places in your fridge you might not think to clean — but your landlord will absolutely check.

First, defrost it. Ice can build up over time, and it’s good to let it melt to really clean the inside. Make sure to wipe down the back, front, handles, and top of the fridge.

“If you live in a place with hard water, baking soda sprinkled on the stains and then sprayed with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water will make scrubbing easier once it sits for 15 minutes.”

You’ll also need to pull it away from the wall and clean all the dust and gunk and unidentifiable bits of food that have been festering underneath. And remember to clean the wall back there too!

Protip: All this applies to the washer and dryer too (except maybe the defrosting part).

2. Cabinets

Wiping and cleaning all the cabinet doors and handles is only the beginning. The top edges of your cabinet doors have a bad habit of collecting dust and grime. Same with the insides of the doors (though we’re not sure how!).

One place the landlords will look over that you might not notice are the hinges. Be sure to give those a wipe-down, too. And finally, stick your head and your hands right into those cabinets to make sure they are as clean on the inside as they are on the outside.

3. Sinks

Both in the kitchen and the bathrooms. While you can get the basin sparkling like the sun, if you haven’t dipped your cleaning brush down into the drain (as far as reasonably possible) you risk losing your deposit.

Shine up the faucet too, making sure you scrub away all the gunk that tends to grow around the base of the faucet — especially in the back. You need to make sure the stopper/plug is free of scum, hair, and rust, so you might have to do some minor plumbing to remove it for an inspection.

4. Toilets

Just flushing won’t do the trick. You’ll need to grab that toilet brush and get rid of all the stains on the inside of the bowl.

Once you’ve gotten that out of the way, it’s time to wipe down and clean up the outside — including the back side, one place that many a renter will miss. And if you can, take the cover off the tank (carefully) and ensure the underside of that cover and the top edge of the tank looks good. (If it’s any consolation, you probably won’t have to clean the inside of the tank.)

5. Showers

Possibly the toughest part to clean, and it’s also immediately obvious to your landlord whether they’ll have to penalize you here.

Get a strong cleaner and a stiff brush and give it some elbow grease. If you live in a place with hard water, baking soda sprinkled on the stains and then sprayed with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water will make scrubbing easier once it sits for 15 minutes.

Like the sinks, you’ll need to pay attention to the water fixtures, including where they meet the shower tiles and the shower head itself. The grout will also need to be scrubbed, especially in the corners.

6. Door Knobs

We touch them more than anything else in the house, but they often get overlooked. The front door, the bathroom door, the bedroom doors, and the back door, not to mention the handles on all the drawers and appliances; they may not be filthy and covered with gunk, but they need to be wiped down.

Now, think about how often we push a door closed without touching the handle or knob. This means a slow build-up of residue from our fingers and hands that can easily go unnoticed by a tenant, but certainly not by a landlord who hasn’t been desensitized to seeing it every day. This “print” on door handles and frames will need to be cleaned as well.

This also applies to light switches, switch plates, and the walls around them.

7. Dust magnets

There are countless places where dust and yuck can collect: the top edges of doors and window frames; on curtain and closet rods; on the upper sides of light fixtures; along baseboards and on windowsills; on air vents and window blinds; and on the top edge of the bathroom mirror.

Try looking around a room and wondering where dust might collect, but not be wiped off, or places where you rarely look.

Now Show Your Landlord Your Work

Even if you get the old pad looking perfectly spotless, your work is not quite over. Get with your landlord and do a final walk-through together. If there are any issues that would keep you from getting your security deposit back, your landlord will be obliged to tell you on the spot.

“…a slow build-up of residue from our fingers and hands that can easily go unnoticed [on doors and light switches] by a tenant, but certainly not by a landlord…”

If the place indeed looks just as good as it did when you moved in, you can either ask for your deposit back or get a signed letter or form stating you’ve fulfilled your obligations as a renter and will be getting your deposit returned to you.

Hey, your landlord is going to be thorough. So should you.

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Did Your Rent Cost Just Skyrocket? Here Are Some Options

Author: Jesse Relkin

Publish Date: September 7, 2022

Last Modified Date: September 9, 2022

Category: Money Saving, Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: downsizing apartment, downsizing home, haggle landlord, high rent, housing market, landlord, living with roommates, moving in with family, rent haggling, rent increase, rent to own, rent too expensive, rental market, renters rights, renting rights, rents rising, roommates

Did your rent just shoot up big time? I hear ya. I’m not sure what it’s like in every neck of the woods, but here in Florida, renters have had to deal with some shocking increases recently. In fact, most of the nation’s top 10 steepest regional increases happened in Florida. Fort Myers took the “win” with an average rent increase of 32.4% betweem 2021 to 2022.

That’s largely because Florida doesn’t have any rent control legislation. But this is not a state-specific issue; across the United States, rent has increased an average of 17% per month!

If this is happening to you, you’re not alone. And like everyone else, you’re probably wondering what you should do next.

Here are your options – including a few you might not love!

1. Yes, you’re allowed to haggle with your landlord

Before you lose hope and start browsing local listings, you might as well try to keep your current place. Even if it feels awkward, counteroffering is a normal option, especially if you have a compelling story. Heck, leaning into my identity as a single mom, I successfully haggled to bring down my son’s private school tuition a few years back.

“Across the United States, rent has increased an average of 17% per month.”

To be clear, this is more effective if you’re speaking to an individual landlord, as opposed to a property management company. But you never know, and it never hurts to try. Before you do, you should take some time to research your local renter’s laws. They’re different in every state, and knowing what leverage you may or may not have is extremely useful going into the conversation.

2. Analyze your life, then downsize or downgrade your needs

If you’re on a strict budget or can’t budge on your current rental rate, it might be time to downsize. This might mean losing square footage or sacrificing amenities, like a pool or spacious yard. Truly consider your “wants” versus your “needs”.

Get creative! For example, my sister-in-law is currently renting our guesthouse for overnight stays. Even though it’s less comfy than what she originally wanted, the arrangement saves her a lot of money.

Many websites allow you to browse potential living spaces by specific features, right down to appliances. You might be surprised what impacts rent, and what you can easily live without.

3. Doublecheck your financial trajectory, then… buy a house

I can already hear your exasperated sigh, but wait! While the housing market is at a premium right now, experts actually advise against waiting if you’re even remotely thinking about buying.

It might actually be a good idea to get in before prices get even higher. And if you think you aren’t anywhere near ready, how about a fact-check on that? For instance, if this will be your first home purchase, you can qualify for the First-Time Homeowner Tax Credit, which is $15,000. Consider meeting with a mortgage broker to assess your options.

But what about the down payment? There might be some people in your circle sitting on little nest eggs who might be willing to help out (ahem, parents), or it might be worth pulling from your retirement to invest in real estate. Once again, this is especially true if you’re lucky enough to have a guest house you can rent out to help refill that account.

4. Research all the rent-to-own properties near you

If you’re on the fence about buying, there’s an alternative: rent-to-own. After my Florida-based cousin received notice that her rent for her apartment would be increasing 25% over the previous year, she took this as her cue to buy a house. However, her credit score wasn’t quite there yet. Thus, she decided to look into getting a rent-to-own home, which would allow her to build her credit while setting aside money for a down payment.

Here are the positives:

You’re basically still renting a property, but have secured the right to purchase it at a certain point (for example, after three years)
Some of the money you’ve already put into rent goes toward the purchase, essentially like a down payment (score!)
You don’t have to wait until you’re the official owner before you start making the home feel like your own
In most cases, as long as they don’t require a permit or structural changes, you should be able to make any cosmetic updates, such as installing new countertops, cabinets, and floors

And now for the cons:

Your interim rent will be higher
If you ultimately opt out of the arrangement, you will lose that money
Depending on the contract, you’ll likely be responsible for the maintenance of the property, which may include fixing and replacing appliances

This arrangement can come with specific properties, or you can work with a financial institution like Divvy or Expensify, which will purchase a home of your choosing and set up a rent-to-own arrangement with you.

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Full disclosure: Though my cousin loved the rent-to-own option, she couldn’t find a “perfect-for-her house” before her lease was up, so she’s actually keeping her apartment in spite of the 25% rent increase for another year.

However, this does raise an important point about how you shouldn’t always rush into buying a new house. You still deserve the house of your dreams, not just the first house you can lock down before your lease is up.

5. Take a deep breath and get a roommate

Ew, no. You’re a grown-up now? I totally get it, but hear me out.

At the end of the day, you can save a ton of cash each month when you live with roommates. It’s just a fact of life. In some areas, couples are moving in together sooner, or even staying together instead of breaking up just to save on rent. For the record, I’m not suggesting you have to stick it out with your ex. But if rent’s too pricey for one person, it might be just fine with two, and that’s something to seriously consider.

If the idea of finding a roommate on Craigslist or some random roommate app gives you the heebie-jeebies, I don’t blame you. What can you do instead? Reach deep into your personal network, because you never know if a close friend, your cool cousin, or someone else you enjoy being around is open to sharing a pad with you for a little while.

6. Sigh! Live with family

While there’s a stigma about living in mom’s basement, I’m of the opinion that if that’s what it takes to get through a dismal economic situation, it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks (and, let’s be real, mom will probably be thrilled). That being said, you could think outside the moving-back-in-with-your-parents box (or basement)! With my sister-in-law living on our property, she’s saving on rent, we have help with our mortgage, and we get an extra caretaker for the kids. It’s a win-win.

“At the end of the day, you can save a ton of cash each month when you live with roommates. It’s just a fact of life.”

One more example: My neighbor is planning a second-story addition as a separate residence for her daughter’s young family. If you get creative, you might just land on a neat new living situation that works for everyone involved.

7. Welp, just pay the higher rent

At the risk of sounding like Captain Obvious, I’d like to invite you to take another look at things and ask yourself: Can you make it work? Consider where you can cut other costs in order to redirect funds to your rent increase – even if it’s just for a little while, as you plan toward one of the other options on this list (like my cousin is doing).

One thing to remember as you think this over is that moving can be expensive, too, depending on how much stuff you have and where you’re going.

Make sure to weigh that cost against the cost of staying, do the math on moving, and consider all the fees associated with a new lease or a mortgage. Not to mention… you should ask yourself if you’re really ready to go through the stress of moving. For many people, staying put, at least for now, might just make the most sense.

The average rent increase over the last year was indeed staggering, and we’ll likely continue to see outrageous rents for a while longer. Hopefully, for every renter’s sake, some legislation will come through soon to help provide housing stability. Until then, it’s good to remember that you’re not alone—and, of course, to consider all your options.

The 5 Things To Clean To Get Your Security Deposit Back

Author: Lauren Thomas

Publish Date: March 14, 2022

Last Modified Date: July 11, 2023

Category: Apartment Life, Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: apartment, carpet, carpet cleaners, carpet cleaners near me, carpet cleaning, clogged drain, drains, dry wall, drywall, first apartment, hireahelper, how to fix dry wall, how to get my security deposit back, how to rent, landlord, landlord security deposit, last minute move, lease, movers, plumbers, porch, security deposit, security deposit back, terms of lease, trash, trash removal, uhaul

If you’re renting your home, condo, or apartment, you probably paid a security deposit when you signed the lease. The good news is this deposit is refundable when you move out… as long as you meet certain requirements.

Landlords use security deposits to protect their property and pay for repairs or cleaning if a tenant leaves damage or a mess behind. Here’s how to make sure you receive your deposit after moving out.

Security Deposit 101

Whenever you rent a place, there are some things everyone should know about security deposits before signing their lease.

What can prevent you from getting your security deposit back?

The most common reasons for not getting your deposit back include:

Moving out before the terms of your lease is up
Breaking the terms of your lease
Leaving significant damage behind

If your rental is judged to be extremely dirty, the landlord may also hold your deposit in order to pay for professional cleaning before a new tenant moves in.

Ultimately, use common sense when cleaning your rental before you move out. (Certain things like faded paint, sagging cabinets, and general wear and tear are usually considered normal for a rental, so don’t worry too much about those issues.) If you’re concerned, make sure you take a few pictures and note them on your move-out walkthrough checklist.

How do I increase the odds of getting my deposit back before I move In?

Before you move into your rental, ask for a walkthrough checklist. This list should consist of any pre-existing damage, as well as areas where the rental still needs to be cleaned. Take photos of anything that causes concern, so you have proof that it was there before you moved in. The more thorough your walkthrough list is now, the better the odds are that you’ll get your security deposit back later.

What fees or expenses are renters responsible for paying?

The fees or expenses you’re responsible for will vary depending on your landlord and the terms of your lease. For example, many landlords expect renters to pay for a professional carpet cleaning before they move out. If you’re unclear about which things you’re responsible for, ask your landlord for clarification to avoid surprises later.

What can and can’t I change in the apartment?

In most cases, you won’t be allowed to make significant changes to your apartment, such as knocking down a wall or replacing the appliances. Make sure you’re clear about what you cannot do versus the things you can. In many cases, landlords don’t mind if you paint the walls a different color, but they may not allow you to make structural changes or alter the interior of the rental in any way.

The 5 Must-Cleans: Floors, Surfaces, Trash, Fridge and Your Belongings

There are certain things that every tenant must clean (even if you’re moving last-minute) if you want to get your security deposit back.

Floors: Vacuum and sweep all floors to remove excess dirt and debris. If you wish, you can hire a professional carpet cleaner, which is recommended if you notice any significant stains or marks on the carpeting.
Wipe down all surfaces: Once you’ve packed, make sure you dust and wipe down all surfaces, including windowsills, door handles, bathroom vanities, and kitchen countertops.
Remove trash: Go through your rental and make sure that all trash is removed. This means leaving zero waste when you move, which includes bathrooms, bedrooms, living area, any backyard or patio and the kitchen.
Empty and clean out the fridge: Throw away leftover food in your refrigerator and wipe the inside clean. Do not unplug the fridge unless your landlord asks you to power it down. Make sure the inside of your microwave and oven is reasonably clean, too.
Don’t leave items behind: If you leave that old couch you don’t plan to take with you behind, your landlord will likely take money from your security deposit so they can pay to have it removed. Never leave anything behind, and make sure that the entire rental is completely empty.

Less Obvious Security Deposit Ruiners: Stains, Dings, Odors and Drains

There are other issues beyond basic cleaning that can be seen as damage to your rental. Major damage to your place is covered with the security deposit, and some cannot be repaired once it happens. But here are common types of damage that are fixable (with a little elbow grease).

Patch dings in the drywall

To repair drywall, use a quality spackle that will fill in holes. Smooth the spackle down using a flat-edged tool and allow it to dry. You can also use a wall patch to fix the issue. If you have paint that matches your wall color, paint over the repaired areas.

Rent a steam cleaner for carpet stains

Common stains like dirt, ink, and pet urine are the norm for many landlords. However, you might not get your security deposit back if the carpet is in bad shape. To fix the problem, rent a steam carpet cleaner or hire a professional to come in and clean the floors before you leave.

Deep clean walls and upholstery to remove pet odors

Pets are messy, and they can often leave unpleasant odors behind. The best way to prevent this is to address messes as they happen and clean your pet’s bedding regularly.

Use an air filter to remove pet odors from the air. Before you move out, deep-cleaning the apartment is the best way to remove residual odor. This includes scrubbing down your walls and upholstery, and using odor-neutralizing cleaning products that are specifically made to address pet odors.

Remove buildup from glass stovetops with vinegar and baking soda

Glass stovetops can easily collect gunk that looks like damage, especially because the buildup is notoriously difficult to remove. Get rid of grime on your glass stovetop by spraying it with distilled white vinegar.

Sprinkle some baking soda onto the stovetop and then lay a wet towel over the mixture for about 10 to 15 minutes. Next, remove the towel and wipe the surface clean using a soft microfiber cloth dipped in water. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains, you may need to scrub or scrape for a long time and finish with a glass stovetop-specific cleaner.

Address clogged drains with drain cleaner or a snake

In many cases, clogged drains are a gray area, depending on whether the clog was caused by normal vs. irresponsible use of the plumbing. A clog often does not constitute damage that would allow a landlord to keep your security deposit, but that doesn’t mean they won’t try.

Addressing drain clogs is a great way to avoid the issue altogether. If any drains are clogged in your rental, use a plunger to unclog the toilets and a drain cleaner for showers, sinks, and tubs. You can also remove the drain cover and use a special tool for fishing out hair and gunk to unclog the drains.

Tighten or replace cabinet hinges

If your kitchen or bathroom cabinets are broken or ripped from the hinges, it could cost you some or all of your security deposit.

Start by re-tightening the hinges that are already there. If that doesn’t fix the issue, you can easily replace the cabinet hinges for a minimal cost.

Rescreen ripped sliders & window screen

If any windows are broken, it’s recommended that you get them repaired before you move out. But landlords care about more than just glass, this logic goes for screen windows too!

Torn or ripped screens can be replaced, or you can use a screen repair kit to patch the damage.

With some general cleaning and elbow grease, you should be able to get your security deposit back when you move out of your rental. Make sure you’re clear about the terms of your lease and do a thorough walkthrough both when moving in and moving out.

Clean your rental thoroughly and repair minor damages, and you should have a smooth move-out experience with that extra cash back!

11 Common Home Issues To Check If You Suspect Your House Is Haunted

Author: Alexis Rhiannon

Publish Date: October 19, 2021

Last Modified Date: October 17, 2022

Category: Home Improvement, Seasonal & Holidays

Tags: Tags: Behind The Scenes at HireAHelper, carbon monoxide, carbon monoxide poisoning, co2, eating schedules, electricity problems, emf, ghosts, hireahelper, home improvement, how to level furniture, landlord, lease, level furniture, pest removal, pests, poison, porch, radiator repair, shutters, the fear frequency, wiring

So you’re freshly moved into a new space. Then, all of a sudden, you catch yourself starting to wonder if your new place is haunted.

Maybe it’s because of an unexplained sound you’re hearing at night? Maybe you get a creepy feeling you get when you walk into a certain room? Or maybe you’ve legitimately seen something that you’re convinced is a spirit?

I’m more of a Mythbuster than a Ghostbuster myself (sorry bud, I’m allergic to ectoplasm). With that in mind, here are some plausible explanations (and fixes) for the eerie happenings you’ve been experiencing around your home. Some of them explain away unfamiliar noises, others take aim at inexplicable movements, and some give some context for full-on hallucinations.

Make sure you read them all before you decide to burn it all down!

1. Check the balance of your furniture

A friend of mine owns a dresser that used to (very spookily) open when no one was anywhere near it. He suspected the occult, and his boyfriend suspected an imbalance. While it’s hard to say with certainty who was right, once the couple had a carpenter come look at the piece, it stopped opening. So either it was just about shoring up one of the legs, or the ghost calmed down after it got some attention.

2. There might be a carbon monoxide leak

Almost more scary than a haunting because of its attendant health risks, carbon monoxide leaks can cause weakness, confusion, blurred vision, and even hallucinations; all things that people have reported in hauntings.

And since the gas is odorless and colorless, it might not immediately occur to you that your symptoms have an environmental cause instead of a spiritual one. So if you’re experiencing anything like this, get yourself a carbon monoxide detector stat, because the consequences can quite literally be deadly. (Want proof? Check out what might be the most remarkable Reddit exchange ever published.)

3. Black mold can make you see things

Along the same environmental lines, black mold is another factor that can leave residents reeling—and attributing their sensations to spirits instead of “Stachybotrys chartarum”. (That’s the Latin name for one of the types of fungi most commonly referred to as “black mold.”)

If people in your household are dizzy and seeing things, or even just anxious and depressed, take a peek into dank basements, closet corners, and bathroom walls that get a lot of condensation to see if spores might be blooming there. Not only is it more common than you think, but it’s also not too difficult to remove: experts suggest starting with white vinegar and baking soda for a DIY fix.

4. Adjust loose shutters

Sure, maybe it’s a wraith raking its fingers down your siding, but don’t rule out the possibility of something hitting the outside of your house.

Check the mechanisms that hold them up, then make sure to also check for tree branches that brush against windows, shutters that slap against your window frames, or just a flapping screen door. I have a screen door out to a balcony off my bedroom that gets triggered by the smallest amount of wind and kind of sounds like the teensiest-tiniest knock. I was absolutely certain it was an intruder (or a baby ghost), until I finally got up the nerve to go investigate.

5. Your wiring is playing tricks on you

Especially if you live in an old building, it might be that your wiring and outlets aren’t beefy enough to support the modern-day fixtures you’re using. If that’s the case, this overload can cause electrical issues like flickering or even blowouts which are annoying in the best of times, downright terrifying during the worst of times. (For instance, when you get electrical problems during your monthly séance, just as a message is coming through on the ol’ Ouija board.)

6. (Normal) creatures in the wall

Until you’ve had a squirrel gnaw its way under your eave and then invite all its friends to come party in the wall, you have no idea how much noise a single animal can make. The same goes for mice, missing gerbils, and even birds, all of which can sound downright spooky and scratchy when their normal noises get amplified and bounced around behind your drywall. If the ghosts get really loud, you might want to call pest control instead of those other guys.

7. A late eating schedule impacts you

If you find your sleep disturbed or often wake up having had extremely vivid dreams, it might be worth adjusting your snacking schedule.

Eating late in the evening means your body needs to keep digesting even as you’re trying to fall asleep, which results in mixed messages for your body. Nightmares or discombobulating wake-ups could follow, so avoid the Ebenezer Scrooge of it all by switching your timing around to see if that stops your ghost of Christmas-Yet-to-Come dead in its tracks.

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8. Electromagnetic fields (pick up a lot of things)

If you’ve ever watched a ghost-hunting show, you know that the professionals often use handheld Electro-Magnetic Field (EMF) readers to detect paranormal activity. But if you happened to pick up an EMF reader to do your own research, you should know that EMF devices respond to a wide range of frequencies—not just those caused by supposed specters.

They’re particularly sensitive to alternating currents, like those your television and microwave rely on to operate. So if your EMF reader is getting all jumpy in the middle of your living room, there’s no need to jump to any conclusions until you’ve turned off all your appliances and effectively gone off the grid.

9. Rogue appliances under 20 Hz, AKA “The Fear Frequency”

What’s creepy about humans is that there are things that can affect our happiness and mood that we have no idea are acting on us at all. Case in point? Learn about “The Fear Frequency“, which describes infrasounds that register under 20 hertz, a level that humans can’t hear but can feel.

Studies have shown that appliances operating—or often, malfunctioning—at that frequency can make nearby humans feel anxious and distressed, and even report seeing optical illusions as their eyeballs vibrate imperceptibly. (Shudder.) But thankfully, lifting the malaise is as simple as shutting off or unplugging the item.

10. Pretty much everything about radiators

If you’re new to a radiator setup, you’d be amazed at the sounds that can come out of those little babies. Everything from hissing to clanking to whistling, and even what sounds eerily like screeching. I spent a decade in New York City, and I never got used to it.

11. The location of your lease

Obviously, this is only applicable if you’re a renter. But in a lot of places, landlords are legally required to tell you if someone has recently died in your unit. So if you didn’t get that heads up…congratulations! You can maybe stop lying awake at night imagining a macabre murder scene right where you’re trying to sleep. (Is this helpful? I’ll stop.)

How Your Renters’ Rights Can Lead to Rent Relief (and a Better Lease)

Author: Alexis Rhiannon

Publish Date: July 14, 2021

Last Modified Date: September 1, 2021

Category: Money Saving, Movehacks, Moving Checklists & Planning

Tags: Tags: apartment, apartment hunting, apartments, average rent, bad landlord, cheap rent, federal laws, federal rental rights, hireahelper, how to get rent relief, landlord, lease, lease negotation, movers, moving, my states laws, rent in my area, rent relief, rental contract, rental insurance, rental laws, rental rights, rentals, renter discrimination, renter rights, renting, state laws, tenant rights

It often feels like you hear a ton about bad landlords, a tiny bit about good landlords, and almost nothing about the people in between… you know, the ones who neither are your best friend nor take advantage of you as a renter, but who just do their jobs.

But we should be talking about the typical landlord a lot more! Not only are they the most common experience, but interacting with the leasing system is a great opportunity to take advantage of your rights as a renter.

What are my renters’ rights?

They’re what you automatically get just by upholding your responsibilities as a renter.

Uh… what are my responsibilities as a renter?

The terms of your rental contract, and to pay rent. That’s it.

Is that really it?

Maybe you’re way ahead of me on this, but it took me a second to figure out that I didn’t owe my landlords literally anything beyond my monthly rent check and the terms and conditions I’d agreed to in my lease.

My landlords weren’t my parents, they weren’t my friends, and it turns out you don’t even get a gold star for being an A+ tenant who only ever asks for one thing fixed in seven years. (Why my toilet started suddenly and endlessly flushing of its own accord early on a Sunday morning, I will never know.)

But while you can’t get awards for being the best tenant, you do get rewards just for being a good tenant—or even just being a tenant at all. (See what I did there?)

These rewards are called “renters’ rights“.

Back up! What exactly are ‘renters’ rights’?

Hopefully you’re already well aware of this, but if you rent a property in America or its territories, there are lawful protections in place that are designed to help people who sign rental agreements. Renters’ rights extend from the federal level—meaning laws that universally apply to every state, U.S. territory, and the capital—all the way down to laws applicable only at the local level.

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Those rules and regulations differ vastly between areas, so it won’t be possible for us to get into the logistics of every single state in this one article, sadly.

But what I will do is cover the federal guidelines, plus lay out some of the specifics of my home state of California (plus my hometown of West Hollywood) in order to give you an idea of what sorts of things to be on the lookout for.

And don’t worry, I’ll also show you how to gain access to this information for your very own state, city, and even your neighborhood.

What are my federal renters’ rights?

Broadly speaking, in America, your overall federal renters’ rights (which you can click and dive into if you’re curious) are designed with three main goals in mind:

Provide a template for landlord-tenant agreements that can be adopted at the state level
Safeguard every renter’s right to a habitable space
Ensure that no American tenant experiences discrimination

Maybe you’ve heard this stuff before, but the first step to taking advantage of your rights as a renter is understanding them, so let’s dive a little deeper.

“Renters’ rights extend from the federal level, all the way down to the local level.”

A habitable space literally means “suitable or good enough to live in”, with specifics determined by your state. But examples of breaches might include:

Lack of running water
Faulty wiring
Poor maintenance
Pest infestation
Holes in the wall, ceiling, or floor

In terms of no American tenant experiencing discrimination, the Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of:

Race
Color
National origin
Religion
Sex
Familial status
Disability

This is enforced by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Never be shy about reporting rental discrimination infractions

If you’re having issues in any of the above areas, you don’t have to just suffer through it; the federal government is there to provide support in just these sorts of situations without retribution.

If you feel you’ve been experiencing discrimination from a landlord, you can (and should!) file an online complaint here. For habitability issues in federal housing, you can call (800) 685-8470, while those living in non-federal housing should contact state services (which we’ll get into next).

What are my state-level renters’ rights?

With the federal rights covered above, now we can zoom down to the state level to see what specific rights (often called “tenant rights”) you’re entitled to within the state that you live in.

Tenant rights cover a massive range of topics, and may (or may not) include written rules for matters such as:

Utilities
Rent control, and/or rights of low-income citizens
Security deposits
Air conditioning
Lawyers
Insurance obligations
Thresholds for maintaining renter or landlord status
Disaster relief
Military members
Specific parameters for things such as evictions, repairs, late fees, or lockouts
And much, much more

There are a lot of ways to go about figuring out your own state laws, but the two easiest ways are:

Google [your state] + [renters rights/tenants rights]
Select your state from the list below and explore (try to stick to “.gov” websites)

Where I live in California, for example, I’m led to a 121-page document that lays out everything I need to know as a renter, which includes a lengthy section on my rights as a renter.

Here are just a few of the things Californian renters are entitled to:

Strict limits on security deposits and late fees
Information about rent control ordinances that could limit or prohibit rent increases
Limits on their landlord’s ability to enter their property
The circumstances under which they’re allowed to withhold rent payments
Specifics about what “habitable” means in California
The right to know whether someone died in their unit (!) within the last three years
Information about procedures their landlord will have to follow if they want to evict them

What are my current place’s renter rights?

It should all be on the paper you signed (digitally, or in person).

In other words, your lease. This is the most relevant piece of literature for any renter. You should always read it carefully before signing.

Here’s the thing though: an unsigned contract is your chance to ask for amendments. You can get items struck that you know (from your research) aren’t legal, and potentially even request a rent reduction. (Hey, there’s no harm in asking!)

But even if you’ve already signed your lease, now is as good of a time as any to go back through it and make sure your landlord is holding up their end of the bargain.

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

What can get me a better personal lease?

Great question! And the answer is almost as long as the state-wide list of stuff up there.

It’s often a matter of getting creative with your asks. There are no guarantees, of course. But there are a bunch of us who’ve saved hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars with gentle negotiation and a little bit of tenant rights research.

Okay, so beyond my rights, what kinds of rent relief and additional perks are we talking here?

I’m talking about renter perks like

Rent reductions
Security deposit waivers
Full-on lease rewrites
And beyond!

But usually only if you ask! Ask, ask, ask!

Changes in your lease are all about doing your research and collecting supporting evidence that you can bring to your landlord or managing company as proof that you should get what you’re asking for.

How to Get Rent Relief Through a Better Lease

I’ve compiled a great list of tried-and-true techniques, as well as a few lesser-talked-about tactics for increasing the value of your rental lease.

Keep an eye out for empty units in your building

A friend of mine who lives in a Brooklyn two-bedroom had her roommate move out during the pandemic, and she couldn’t afford the rent on her own. Yet she’d noticed there were multiple open units in her building that hadn’t been rented for months, so she asked if her landlord might be willing to negotiate the price.

He asked what she’d be able to pay, and the two of them ended up settling on a price that was a whopping $1,000 less per month than she and her roommate had previously been paying, all because she’d been a good tenant and he didn’t want to lose her (or her monthly rent check).

Scope out any issues with nearby public transportation

When I moved in with my boyfriend after his lease ran out in 2018, his landlord wanted to increase the rent by a little over $100 per month. But when I pointed out that the subway nearest to our apartment in Astoria was scheduled to be closed for the next few months—meaning a significantly longer walk to the train—he agreed to keep the rent where it was.

“Beyond your official, written protections, there are often goodies within reach for those who pay their rent on time, communicate well with their landlords, and are generally good neighbors.”

Look for impending demolition or construction notices

Something else I pointed out to our Astoria landlord was that construction was starting on the empty lot next door, which was going to be a noisy nuisance during the day—when I’d be home working as a freelance writer or trying to sleep after a late-night bar shift. Who knows whether the deciding factor was the train or the construction, but either way, he agreed! I’m glad I was ready with both.

Get a reduction for a newly-obstructed view

A friend of mine who lived in Washington D.C. watched nearby construction completely change the view from his high-rise apartment. In response, he was able to get his rent decreased by $400 per month just by bringing it up with his landlord! (If something is going to affect the amount your building can rent units to new tenants for, existing tenants should be able to take advantage of that change as well.)

Be the tenant you wish to see in the world

Beyond your official, written protections, there are often goodies within reach for those who pay their rent on time, communicate well with their landlords, and are generally good neighbors.

Take a moment to think about what kind of renter you are. There’s no more shame in being a mediocre renter than there is in being a mediocre landlord; it all just comes down to how much more attention you want. If you’re currently getting away with something like an unapproved subletter, a secret pet, tons of wall damage, or late rent payments you haven’t been dinged for yet, you might not want to ask for anything additional for risk of losing the benefits you’re already skating by with. But it’s truly up to you.

Google your specific neighborhood’s laws

Depending on your area, you may be covered by local city or even neighborhood laws that offer protections beyond what’s included in that document.

In my city of West Hollywood, for example, we have this great Rent Stabilization Ordinance that ensures that rents can only be increased once annually, and then only by a set amount. Currently, it’s capped at 2.25%, and rent increases of any kind were specifically prohibited during the pandemic. (As were evictions, but that hasn’t stopped my landlord from putting notices on doors and hoping people don’t know their business, so stay alert!)

Make the most of a crushing recession (or, y’know, a global pandemic)

A friend who lived in New York City in 2008 balked at a proposed rent increase at the height of the recession. Thinking quickly, she looked up the city’s cost of living increase for the year, which was so low that it didn’t justify the jump in rent. She called her leasing office to plead her case, letting them know she wasn’t able to pay the new number. She was able to talk them out of charging her more—at least until the next year.

Come up with your own contract ideas, then give them a shot (seriously)

At the end of the day, a living arrangement is anything that multiple individuals legally agree to. It’s very probable you don’t know what’s going on in the life of a landlord. How much slack they have and what they have to work with will be different for every single person.

Here are other things that might lead your landlord towards granting rent relief

Overall rent decreases in your area
If they have other problem tenants who are taking up a lot of their resources
A change in your own income, like losing your job or suddenly finding yourself without a roommate or partner to split the rent

Basically, if it comes down to a choice between a rent reduction or having to find a new tenant who may or may not be more reliable than you’ve been, you’d be surprised at how many landlords will choose the first option. This is true especially right now, with rent costs plunging on average in the wake of COVID-19.

Remember, we as tenants have more rights and negotiating power than you might realize. Use them.

Illustrations by Kyle Smart

How Much Does Renters Insurance Cost?

Author: Real People

Publish Date: December 7, 2018

Last Modified Date: December 12, 2018

Category: Apartment Life

Tags: Tags: apartment, apartment hunting, deductable, insurance cost, landlord, loans, renters insurance, renting, renting cost, states, taxes

If the thought of another $100-plus monthly expense is keeping you from buying renters insurance, you should know a renters insurance policy isn’t likely to cost nearly that much.

The average cost of renters insurance in the U.S. was $188 a year, or just over $15 a month, in 2015 per data from a 2017 report by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), ranging from a high of $262 to a low of $114.

Now that you know that the cost of renters insurance is closer to a car wash than a car payment, read on to learn more about how that number is determined:

How Much Does Renters Insurance Cost in Each State?

Given that your neighborhood and building type can influence your premiums, it stands to reason the cost of renters insurance varies dramatically across state lines. Keep in mind, though, pricing gets more granular than that, and the cost of renters insurance can also vary dramatically across any given state.

With that caveat in mind, here are the average annual renters insurance premiums in each one as of 2015, per the NAIC:

State	Avg. Annual Premium
Alabama	$242
Alaska	$172
Arizona	$191
Arkansas	$214
California	$202
Colorado	$166
Connecticut	$201
Delaware	$156
District of Columbia	$158
Florida	$195
Georgia	$226
Hawaii	$201
Idaho	$155
Illinois	$173
Indiana	$183
Iowa	$146
Kansas	$177
Kentucky	$172
Louisiana	$249
Maine	$147
Maryland	$161
Massachusetts	$196
Michigan	$203
Minnesota	$144
Mississippi	$262
Missouri	$180
Montana	$147
Nebraska	$149
Nevada	$189
New Hampshire	$150
New Jersey	$171
New Mexico	$191
New York	$202
North Carolina	$154
North Dakota	$114
Ohio	$185
Oklahoma	$242
Oregon	$166
Pennsylvania	$156
Rhode Island	$179
South Carolina	$192
South Dakota	$121
Tennessee	$210
Texas	$241
Utah	$149
Vermont	$155
Virginia	$153
Washington	$169
West Virginia	$186
Wisconsin	$132
Wyoming	$153
United States	$188

The most expensive states for renters insurance

The unifying theme here: Extreme weather. Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana and Alabama are coastal and susceptible to strong storms, while Oklahoma has a tornado problem.

Mississippi: $262
Louisiana: $249
Alabama & Oklahoma (tie): $242
Texas: $241
Georgia: $226

The cheapest states for renters insurance

Conversely, the states with the cheapest renters insurance are much more insulated from extreme weather and natural disasters. Is it worth moving to cut your renters insurance rates? We’re gonna go with … no. But it’s good to know about state-by-state disparities if you’re planning a move so you can account for the cost difference in your budget, or just understand why cousin Beth in North Dakota is paying so much less to insure her apartment than you are.

North Dakota: $114
South Dakota: $121
Wisconsin: $132
Minnesota: $144
Iowa: $146

What Determines the Cost of Renters Insurance?

Renters insurance provides protection for your belongings, plus some liability coverage for good measure. Renters insurance rates are determined by a few factors, some of which you can choose, and some of which you can’t.

Renters insurance cost factors that are set by your circumstances:

Your location: Renters insurance rates can vary widely by location (see the table below) and can even vary within cities and neighborhoods and property by property (older buildings tend to cost more, while newer buildings with more security and safety features can garner lower premiums).
Your credit score: Your credit score influences a lot of the rates you’ll get in your financial life, and renters insurance is among them. A good credit score is considered a sign of financial wellness and is a big factor in lowering your premiums.
How much stuff you have: Generally, the more value your home inventory has, the more it’ll cost to insure. We’re saying value because, while having a lot to insure generally costs more, the total price of your possessions is the real driver here. So a two-bedroom full of Ikea furniture may be valued less than a studio full of Eames.

Renters insurance cost factors that are set by your choices:

How much coverage you want: More coverage costs more money. If you’re willing to accept lower payouts in the event of a claim, then your premiums will be lower. And if you’re willing to gamble that your entire vintage guitar collection isn’t covered, then you’ll save some money upfront. But if you want higher coverage limits and additional riders for expensive items (and you probably do), expect your premiums to be higher than if you just had a thrift store bed and a beater guitar.
How high (or low) you want your deductible to be: That’s the amount of money you pay out of pocket before your coverage kicks in. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium.
How you want to be paid in the event of a claim: Actual cash value renters insurance will pay you the value of belongings at the time of a claim, not the price you paid for them or the price it would cost to replace them. Replacement cost renters insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing the item at the time of the claim. Replacement cost renters insurance pays out a lot more if you need to file a claim, but it also costs more.

How Do Coverage Choices Affect Price?

Since your circumstances are generally set, it’s your choices about coverage that allow you to have some leeway over the rates you’ll get. Find out how your choices can change your premiums.

What does a basic renters insurance policy cost?

The average renters insurance policy costs between $120 and $190 a year. These basic policies generally offer $25,000 personal property coverage, $100,000 liability protection, and a $500 deductible, though those numbers are just ballpark figures and your particular insurance company’s basic coverage may be different.

Some examples of what a basic renters insurance policy will cover:

At least part of the replacement cost of a laptop that gets fried by a water damage from a burst pipe.
Some coverage for medical expenses if a friend gets hurt making a smoothie in your apartment — plus some court expenses if that friend decides to sue you.
Coverage for personal property that is stolen when you’re away from home.
If a covered event renders your apartment uninhabitable, your policy will also pay additional living expenses so you can stay in a hotel during repairs.

Check out our deep dive on what renters insurance does and doesn’t cover.

What is the cheapest renters insurance you can buy?

The cheapest renters insurance will have the least amount of coverage. If you opt for low coverage amounts for personal property (say, $10,000), personal liability ($100,000), and medical payments to others ($1,000) and you choose a high deductible ($500 to $2,500), you can conceivably get renters insurance for as little as $5 to $8 a month.

Learn more about how to buy cheap renters insurance online.

How much does more coverage cost?

As you up the coverage limits of your renters policy, you also up your premiums. But remember, renters insurance is super affordable, so even huge leaps in coverage can result in just a few more dollars a month.

For example, if you increase to the most common coverage amounts — $25,000 for personal property, $300,000 for personal liability, and $2,000 for medical payments to others — your premiums can still often be under $20 per month.

You can also purchase riders to increase your coverage for specific belongings, so if a basic policy only covers $1,000 worth of jewelry but you have a $5,000 ring, a rider could make up the coverage difference.

Riders are also available to add to your policy that cover you and your belongings in more situations. For example, renters insurance policies don’t cover earthquakes, but you can purchase a rider so that you will be covered in the event of a seismic disaster.

These additions can be as low as a few more dollars a month, or in some cases, even less than that.

How can you save on renters insurance?

You can lower your insurance rate by increasing the number of safety and security features in your home. Many renters insurance companies offer discounts if you have one or more of the following features in your home:

Local fire/smoke alarms (sounds in home)
Central fire/smoke alarms (alerts monitoring system)
Automatic sprinklers
Fire extinguisher
Local burglar alarm (sounds in home)
Central burglar alarm (alerts monitoring system)
Deadbolt lock

Some companies also offer discounts if you bundle your renters insurance plan with another plan, like auto insurance, or if you pay your annual premium at once instead of monthly.

Finally, another huge way to save: increase your credit score. This one takes time, but as your score gets higher, you can get better renters insurance rates.

Colin Lalley is a writer for Policygenius, an online life insurance site with one purpose: “To get people the insurance coverage they need and make them feel good about it.”’ Please note that this editorial content is not written by an insurance agent. It’s intended for informational purposes and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Consult a professional to learn what financial products are right for you.

This post originally appeared on Policygenius.

Paint Chips Aren’t the Only Toxic Hazard I Found While Apartment Hunting

Author: Real People

Publish Date: April 13, 2018

Last Modified Date: September 1, 2021

Category: Neighborhood Advice

Tags: Tags: apartment, apartment hunting, asbestos, carbon monoxide, chemicals, fumes, fumigation, hazards, home inspection, home testing, home toxins, house dangers, landlord, lead, lead based, lead based paint, mold, paint, paint chips, radon, toxic

I‘m a single mom, so you might say I’m a little overprotective of my daughter—who isn’t?

My daughter and I are a dynamic duo. When it was time for us to pack up our stuff and journey across the city, my overprotectiveness made sure our new home was safe for the one thing in my life I couldn’t possibly live without: my little girl.

I also happen to live in New York City. And like many families here and other metropolitan areas, we’re your average apartment dwellers. Guess what? Especially here on the east coast, apartment buildings are often old, which set off my mom alarms when I was looking for a new place.

What I already knew to do was be vigilant about paint chips. But after a scare that led me to do more research, I found out there was so much more than lead paint to worry about. I want to share what I learned so other families can be safer when they move.

Asbestos

Have you heard of asbestos? I had heard of it before but never understood what it really was until I was told that the material was actually in my new apartment.

Through my ordeal with the removal process, I learned that this toxin is the only known cause of a rare form of cancer called mesothelioma. Wow! Getting cancer from the one place meant to keep you safe?

What happens with asbestos is this: when disturbed, the asbestos particles are released into the air and then unknowingly inhaled. Those particles get caught in the lining of vital organs. Consistent exposure can cause cancer, which can form in the abdomen, lungs or even heart. Asbestos is tricky because you can’t identify it by sight with the untrained eye—you actually need to pay someone to inspect your home. (Sometimes this can come with your home inspection, but you might need to ask for the actual test.)

Though when I say you need to, I mean just that. If your home or apartment building was built between 1930 and 1980, it may have asbestos in it. The initial cost may seem like a heavy burden now, but in the long run, will prevent an unnecessary battle with cancer. Get that stuff far, far away from your loved ones!

Radon

So you’ve checked for asbestos. Now onto radon, another sneaky toxin. Radon is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as many as 8 million homes throughout the county have elevated radon levels. That is problematic because the gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon leaches from the soil and into the home where it can collect. There is the highest risk of elevated radon levels in the basements or lowest levels of buildings.

The only way to know if you have elevated radon levels is to test your home. There are two different forms of testing: short and long-term detectors. Short-term detectors measure radon levels for two to 90 days. The long-term tests determine the average radon concentration for more than 90 days. Long-term detectors are more accurate, as radon levels change constantly.

Mold

Mold … now that I’ve done the research, just thinking of this word gives me the willies. Mold is quite common, and for those with allergies or asthma, the presence of mold can be really disruptive to their lives. Yep, unfortunately, I am one of those people. (All my fellow allergy suffers please blow your nose in solidarity.)

Unfortunately, mold does not discriminate against any homes or apartments—you lucky ones with brand spanking new homes may still fall prey to mold growth. Thankfully, it’s pretty simple to remove!

Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than one cup of household laundry bleach in one gallon of water.

To prevent further mold growth, ensure that humidity levels in your space are low. An air conditioner or dehumidifier can help to dry that air out! Cleaning bathrooms with mold killing products will also ensure no little spores have time to flourish. Also, make sure to consider your vents. Keeping household vents open will allow for proper circulation to keep mold at bay.

Lead-Based Paint

Lastly, it’s still important to be on the lookout for lead-based paints. Bad paint was at the forefront of my mind with a little “ankle biter” in tow when I looked at prospective apartments.

Lead is particularly dangerous for kids because, if you weren’t aware, just about everything goes into their mouths, including paint chips. For kids, lead exposure can result in behavior and learning problems, slowed growth and lower IQ. Again, older homes and apartments have a higher incidence of lead paint—those built before 1940 have an 87 percent chance that they contain lead paint. If the lead paint is in good shape, there is little to no risk. but if the paint is chipping, peeling or cracking, it’s time to get it removed.

It’s important to have your homes inspected for lead-based paint. Don’t be shy about bringing it up to a landlord, even if you’re already moved in! A basic risk assessment will inform you about any lead-based paint present in the space and how to mitigate the risks.

As a young professional making my way on my own I was confident that I was smart enough to know what to look for when apartment hunting. It turns out I wasn’t smart enough without additional research. But hopefully, through the tips and tricks I’ve mentioned, you can be sure to save yourself from some headaches (and heartaches) and prevent you and your little bundles of joy from exposure to toxins.

Tonya is a single mother and blogger raising her daughter in NYC. She has a newfound passion for health after journeying into motherhood and hopes to share her knowledge with those around her. In addition to writing, she enjoys going to the park with her daughter and cozying up with a good book.

Help a Friend Move (Without Lifting Anything)

Author: DIY Playbook

Publish Date: September 8, 2016

Last Modified Date: November 4, 2022

Category: Neighborhood Advice

Tags: Tags: apartment move, babysitting, DIY Thursday, DIYT, DIYThursday, Everybody's How-To's, friends, good neighbors, home cooked, landlord, Moving Checklist, moving tips, Moving To-do List, neighbors, organized packing, pets, spring cleaning, storage tips

Let’s say your friends are moving into a new home. For fun, let’s say they’re moving long-distance from Las Vegas to DC, so moving is an especially hectic and special time for them. That said, if these friends of yours are smart they’ve already hired long-distance helpers, so they’re all set for this big moving day. But you – being the amazing, thoughtful, generous friend that you are – still want to somehow help these friends with their move. Since the physical moving and lifting part is covered (thanks, HireAHelper!), you need to get a bit more creative when it comes to helping out.

Fear not! Moving is more than just picking up boxes; Here are five ways to help your friends move without any heavy lifting.

(more…)

1. Refrigerator

“If you live in a place with hard water, baking soda sprinkled on the stains and then sprayed with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water will make scrubbing easier once it sits for 15 minutes.”

2. Cabinets

3. Sinks

4. Toilets

5. Showers

6. Door Knobs

7. Dust magnets

Now Show Your Landlord Your Work

“…a slow build-up of residue from our fingers and hands that can easily go unnoticed [on doors and light switches] by a tenant, but certainly not by a landlord…”

1. Yes, you’re allowed to haggle with your landlord

“Across the United States, rent has increased an average of 17% per month.”

2. Analyze your life, then downsize or downgrade your needs

3. Doublecheck your financial trajectory, then… buy a house

4. Research all the rent-to-own properties near you

5. Take a deep breath and get a roommate

6. Sigh! Live with family

“At the end of the day, you can save a ton of cash each month when you live with roommates. It’s just a fact of life.”

7. Welp, just pay the higher rent

Security Deposit 101

What can prevent you from getting your security deposit back?

How do I increase the odds of getting my deposit back before I move In?

What fees or expenses are renters responsible for paying?

What can and can’t I change in the apartment?

The 5 Must-Cleans: Floors, Surfaces, Trash, Fridge and Your Belongings

Less Obvious Security Deposit Ruiners: Stains, Dings, Odors and Drains

1. Check the balance of your furniture

2. There might be a carbon monoxide leak

3. Black mold can make you see things

4. Adjust loose shutters

5. Your wiring is playing tricks on you

6. (Normal) creatures in the wall

7. A late eating schedule impacts you

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

8. Electromagnetic fields (pick up a lot of things)

9. Rogue appliances under 20 Hz, AKA “The Fear Frequency”

10. Pretty much everything about radiators

11. The location of your lease

What are my renters’ rights?

Uh… what are my responsibilities as a renter?

Is that really it?

Back up! What exactly are ‘renters’ rights’?

What are my federal renters’ rights?

“Renters’ rights extend from the federal level, all the way down to the local level.”

<img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-20110 alignright" src="https://blog.hireahelper.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/HireAHelper_spot1.webp" alt="renter rights" width="355" height="355" />Never be shy about reporting rental discrimination infractions

What are my state-level renters’ rights?

What are my current place’s renter rights?

What can get me a better personal lease?

Okay, so beyond my rights, what kinds of rent relief and additional perks are we talking here?

How to Get Rent Relief Through a Better Lease

“Beyond your official, written protections, there are often goodies within reach for those who pay their rent on time, communicate well with their landlords, and are generally good neighbors.”

Here are other things that might lead your landlord towards granting rent relief

Illustrations by Kyle Smart

How Much Does Renters Insurance Cost in Each State?

The most expensive states for renters insurance

The cheapest states for renters insurance

What Determines the Cost of Renters Insurance?

Renters insurance cost factors that are set by your circumstances:

Renters insurance cost factors that are set by your choices:

How Do Coverage Choices Affect Price?

What does a basic renters insurance policy cost?

What is the cheapest renters insurance you can buy?

How much does more coverage cost?

How can you save on renters insurance?

This post originally appeared on Policygenius.

Asbestos

Radon

Mold

Lead-Based Paint

Tonya is a single mother and blogger raising her daughter in NYC. She has a newfound passion for health after journeying into motherhood and hopes to share her knowledge with those around her. In addition to writing, she enjoys going to the park with her daughter and cozying up with a good book.

I'm Moving

I'm a Mover

Never be shy about reporting rental discrimination infractions