Renter's Tips

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Renter's Tips

The KSU Off-Campus Housing Information web site is provided as a public service by the KSU Residence Life Office. Please note that while Kennesaw State University provides information for students about housing, the university has no affiliation with any property and does not make any specific recommendations for such; in addition, we provide roommate information, but we do not match roommates. Most of the links listed here are third-party information. It is up to individual students to do their own "homework and footwork."

If you are going to share a place, try to see the place together.
On your first time apartment hunting, don't take your checkbook with you. It will prevent impulse buys or discourage high pressure tactics.
Dress appropriately. Landlords don't have to let you have a place just because you want it.
Location - Is it convenient? Is it near public transportation? Make sure that your apartment is in a safe area, or on a safe street.
House or apartment? Each have advantages and shortcomings. Consider all of them before renting.
Is the building and grounds clean and maintained?
Look for safety features, such as smoke detectors, door and window locks, outdoor lighting, and fire extinguishers.
Are the doors sturdy? Is the lock a deadbolt? Is there a chain?
Closely look at the fridge and oven.
Are features like tennis courts and pools important to you?
Look for fire detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Check to see if the windows open.
Have a good look in the closets. Will all your clothes fit?
Try and evaluate how thin the walls between the bedrooms are. Thin walls can be a major source of squabbles.
Does the landlord seem friendly and responsible?
Do the potential neighbors seem compatible?
If you have any pets, make sure they're allowed.

How Much Can You Afford For An Apartment?

The general rule of thumb is 30% to 35% of your gross income - but all consider your level of current debt. While different landlords use different guidelines for qualifying prospective residents, these figures will help you determine the amount of rent you should be allowed to afford.

The Lease

Once you make a decision to rent an apartment, the landlord will have you sign an agreement known as a rental lease. This lease is legally binding - a good rule of thumb is to never sign a lease if you are not comfortable with, or do not understand all of the details.
Read the lease. Then read it again.
Take someone with you when visiting and ask him/her to read with you the full and legal agreement between you and the landlord or accommodation agency.
When is the rent to be paid? Are there any additional charges for late payments?
Who will pay for the utilities?
When is the deposit (to cover any breakages or unpaid rent) to be refunded? Under what conditions will it not be refunded? Make sure all points are in writing.
Be sure to request a receipt as proof of money exchanged. Before moving in a furnished home, also verify that you are being given an itemized list of included furniture so that you can compare if charged for damages.
It is highly recommended to inspect property, even to take pictures, with the landlord when moving in and out.

Renter's Insurance

While all landlord and property owners carry insurance on their properties, these policies cover the landlord's property and possessions - not yours. To protect yourself in the event of fire, flood, or theft, you should obtain a renters insurance policy from a reputable insurance company. These policies cover your belongings and are relatively inexpensive. More information is available at the Web Resources page.