Signing a Lease

Once you have committed and are ready to move into an apartment, you will be required to sign a lease. Many leases are a yearlong commitment, and require additional fees if you move out early. It is extremely important to thoroughly read the lease so that you understand what you are signing, as it is a legally binding document. Make sure you have a copy of the signed lease for your records.  

Along with signing the lease, it is common to pay first and last month’s rent, and a security deposit of up to one month's rent. Additional fees may include the broker's fee, a key fee, and a credit check fee. It is important to understand exactly what the fees are before you sign any paperwork with the realtor or the landlord.

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities 

As a tenant, you have certain rights. This includes having a safe and habitable living space that is structurally sound with heat and water. You should know who to contact in the event of a maintenance issue, and it is the landlord’s responsibility to maintain the property at this standard. The landlord is required to give you reasonable notice to enter the apartment for repairs, inspections, and showings. Typically, 24-48 hours is standard. It is important to report any needed repairs in the apartment right away. It is your responsibility to care for the apartment and be respectful of your neighbors.

As a tenant, you also have certain responsibilities. You must pay the agreed-upon rent as stated in your lease on time, or you may face eviction. If utilities are not included in your lease, you will also be responsible for paying for them( such as heat, hot water, and electricity). 

The City of Boston has specific guidelines set for tenants and landlords that you should be familiar with. Additionally, the state of Massachusetts has statewide policies, as well as a rental guide for students. 

Renter's Insurance

While landlords are responsible for the physical building, they are not responsible for your personal belongings in it. In the unfortunate event of a fire, burglary, or other disaster your personal belongings will not be covered unless you have renter’s insurance. Renter’s insurance also covers personal liabilities if someone is injured in your apartment and additional living expenses after a disaster. It is important to research different companies and compare different insurance plans. Most major insurance companies such as Allstate, Geico and State Farm offer renter’s insurance.