17 Landlord Hacks You Should Look For Before Renting
Renting a new place can be a mix of excitement and dread. You’re dreaming of the cozy evenings and cute Pinterest decor, but reality hits when the landlord’s quirks start to show. To save yourself from future headaches, here are 17 “landlord hacks” you should keep an eye out for before signing that lease. Trust me, these little checks can save you from big regrets later.
The Paint Job from 30 Years Ago
If the walls scream “off-white but dingy” or “bright yellow kitchen nightmare,” your landlord might be saving money on repainting. A fresh coat of paint shows they care, but if they tell you to “just hang a tapestry,” it’s a sign they’ve been cutting corners for years. Look closely for cracks, chips, or uneven painting—it’s not just about aesthetics; it reflects how much they care for the property overall.
“Pet-Friendly” with a Catch
Pet-friendly sounds great until you realize it means a $500 non-refundable deposit per paw. Ask about pet policies upfront and make sure the “friendly” part doesn’t come with an endless list of ridiculous rules. Some landlords even restrict the size or breed of pets, so your dreams of Fido lounging in the sun might get squashed before you even unpack.
The Bare-Minimum Renovation
New cabinets? Look closer. If the doors don’t close properly or the “stainless steel appliances” are peeling paint, you’ve entered the world of cosmetic fixes meant to distract you from deeper issues. These quick fixes often mask long-term problems, like moldy walls behind the shiny backsplash or plumbing leaks that the “renovation” conveniently ignored.
The Disappearing Landlord Act
Do they pick up your calls now? Great! But ask about maintenance requests. A landlord who can’t fix a leaky faucet might also “forget” to respond to emergencies, like your heater dying in February. Try asking current tenants if the landlord follows through on repairs or if they vanish faster than your paycheck after rent is due.
The Questionable Plumbing System
Turn on every faucet, flush the toilet, and listen carefully. If the pipes sound like a marching band or the water pressure couldn’t fill a Dixie cup, you’ll be singing the sad renter blues soon enough. Low water pressure or strange noises could also hint at larger issues, like outdated plumbing that might burst at the worst possible time.
Mystery Smells
Sniff around like you’re auditioning for a cologne ad. Weird odors might mean old carpets, hidden mold, or a landlord who thinks airing out the unit is “optional.” Pay extra attention to areas near sinks, bathrooms, and closets, as those are hotspots for moisture and potential mold growth.
DIY Repairs That Scream “Pinterest Fail”
If you spot duct-taped pipes, mismatched tiles, or light switches that do absolutely nothing, run. A landlord who DIYs repairs to “save money” is also the one who won’t hire a professional when the big stuff breaks. These “creative” fixes often cost tenants more down the line when the inevitable repair bills come rolling in.
The “All-Inclusive” Utilities Trap
“Utilities included” sounds like a dream until you realize they keep the heat at 55 degrees in winter to save on bills. Ask how utilities are managed and if there are any caps—because freezing isn’t part of your aesthetic. If they don’t include utilities, get clarity on average monthly costs so you don’t end up shocked by sky-high bills.
Questionable Window Situations
Check every window. If they don’t open, close, or lock properly, not only are you looking at drafty winters, but you’ve also got a landlord who doesn’t prioritize safety. Faulty windows also mean higher heating and cooling costs, which you’ll have to cover unless your landlord suddenly discovers generosity.
The Deposit Black Hole
Ask past tenants if they ever saw their deposit again. If your landlord has a reputation for inventing “wear and tear” charges that rival a car repair bill, don’t expect to get your money back. To protect yourself, document the unit’s condition with photos and videos before move-in so you have evidence if disputes arise.
The “Shared” Spaces Lie
A shared laundry room sounds fine until you realize it’s shared with the landlord’s cousin, their cousin’s dog, and everyone else on the block. Clarify who gets access to what—especially parking and laundry. You don’t want to spend every Sunday fighting over the washing machine or getting towed from “your” parking spot.
A Questionable Lease Agreement
Read the fine print! If the lease feels like it was written in Comic Sans or is suspiciously vague, your landlord might be leaving room to change the rules mid-lease. Look out for clauses about sudden rent hikes, unexpected fees, or responsibilities that should fall on the landlord but somehow end up on you.
The Neighborhood Gossip
Talk to the neighbors. If everyone avoids eye contact and warns you about “issues” with the building, believe them. They’re often a better source of truth than any glowing online reviews, and they’ll tell you if you’re about to move into a nightmare.
The Wi-Fi Dead Zone
Bring your phone to the showing and test for signal strength. If you can’t load Instagram or your GPS gets lost inside, you might be in for internet troubles—and no one wants to work from a coffee shop every day. Ask about internet providers available in the area and whether the building is wired for decent speeds.
The Too-Good-to-Be-True Rent
If the rent is shockingly low for the area, there’s a catch. Either the landlord is hiding major problems, or you’re about to be stuck with surprise fees that will break your budget. Low rent might also mean your neighbors are less-than-stellar, so be prepared for some colorful characters.
The “New Building Manager” Excuse
“Oh, we just got a new building manager, so things are a bit messy.” Translation: The landlord doesn’t want to deal with the mess themselves. A revolving door of managers usually means no one’s really in charge, and your maintenance requests might fall through the cracks.
The Empty Promises Tour
If they promise to “replace the carpet,” “fix the appliances,” or “paint the walls” before move-in, get it in writing. Otherwise, you’ll be staring at that avocado-green fridge until the end of your lease. Verbal agreements don’t hold up when you’re stuck with a unit that hasn’t changed a bit since you first saw it.
20 Foods No One Can Afford Anymore Due To Inflation
With the ever-rising living costs, some foods have become luxury items that only the wealthiest can afford. From exotic delicacies to once-affordable staples, the price hikes have made certain foods out of reach for the average consumer.
20 Foods No One Can Afford Anymore Due To Inflation
15 Ways to Shop Successfully On A Shoestring String Budget
In today’s economy, finding ways to stretch your budget while enjoying what you love is more important than ever. Whether you’re a savvy shopper looking to make the most of your hard-earned money or someone who enjoys the thrill of finding a great deal.
