Advice from Vernon, Tolland

Finding the perfect rental home is always exciting; you have a new place to make your own and call home. In all the excitement, planning, and relief, you will have to sign a lease, and this legal document is a crucial part of your tenancy. Take the time to read the contract carefully before signing, and keep the following things in mind.

3 Things to Know Before Signing a Lease

1. Know Your Rights & Responsibilities
Your lease outlines your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Be sure to go over each of these items and understand what you are agreeing to. A lease can vary from one company to the next; some may use a basic template that plugs your name into the document, while others might have in-depth lease paperwork that accounts for every aspect of your tenancy. Regardless of the size and scope of the lease, read it through to know what is expected of you as a tenant, and ask questions or request clarification on any unclear areas before you sign.

2. Learn the Community Rules
Every rental community has rules that each tenant must adhere to. The lease will usually include these rules, and it’s your job to make sure you follow them. Skipping over these important guidelines could cause an issue. If you are unaware your building has quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. and you play loud music when your alarm goes off at 8:00 a.m., you are breaking the rules without knowing it. That could jeopardize your tenancy if your neighbors start complaining.

3. Understand Lease Renewal & Termination Procedures
Like any legal document, a lease aims to protect all parties who are covered by its terms. Every management company has unique procedures for renewing or terminating your tenancy, and these will be outlined in the lease. Learn the proper steps to renew your lease or vacate at the end of the term. You should also understand the ramifications of breaking the lease if an unexpected turn of events necessitates an early move-out. Having this information will safeguard your legal rights and ensure you are following all appropriate protocol.