If you rent an apartment, you know how important it is to keep up with the payments that are a part of your rental agreement. You will also need to maintain the apartment in good condition at all times because if you do not, the landlord may require additional payments from you for the repairs. Many times, when you rent, you will need to make a security deposit of the place. This security deposit can be used to make the repairs that are needed. Renting is a commitment that you make to the homeowner that you will keep the apartment in good repair at all times.
Your Responsibility In Renting An Apartment
Your monthly rent fee will need to be paid on time each month and the amount that you pay is reflected in your lease agreement. Your landlord cannot make additions to the rent amount without prior notice being given to you. The notice should be in writing and state the date that the new amount will be due. In your lease agreement, there may be a clause that states what will happen if you are either late on your rent or miss a payment altogether. Typically, a late payment fee will be included and if you are late a late rent notice must be given to you by your landlord. This will state the fee you will need to pay in addition to the normal rent. If you miss a payment of rent, your lease notice will state what the consequences will be. Along with a late fee, you may be required to vacate the premises.
If You Receive A Notice With Incorrect Information
Sometimes, mistakes are made and you may find you have received a late notice when you have already paid your rent. If you are unable to correct this by speaking to your landlord or the management company, you should contact an attorney who specializes in rental law to help you. You will need to show proof that your payment was made and he will contact the rental agent or landlord on your behalf. The best advice that experts will tell you is that you should always pay your rent using checks or a credit card and always get a receipt for payment. This would be all of the proof you need if you get a late notice. Paying by cash is not advised as there is too much room for errors. Your landlord should offer you a receipt every time you pay your rent.
Many people believe that it is better to rent an apartment than to own a home. The responsibility of the renter is much less than the homeowner. However, there may be stipulations that are included in your lease agreement that you will be responsible for and if you fail to do so, you could lose your place. You should contact a lawyer prior to signing a rent lease so that he or she can review anything that may be in there.