Renting a home: a checklist

What to agree, check and keep when you take a home on rent.

Before you agree

• See the home in daylight and in the evening, and run the taps and switches.
• Ask who owns it and see something that shows they do.
• Ask what the rent covers and what it does not: maintenance, water, parking, electricity.

The deposit

A security deposit is returned at the end if the home is left in good order. Agree in writing how much it is, what may be deducted and when it comes back. Photograph the home's condition on the day you move in and keep the pictures.

The agreement

• A written agreement with the names, the address, the rent, the deposit and the dates.
• The length of the lease, any lock-in and the notice either side must give.
• How and when the rent may be raised.
• Whether pets, guests or a change of occupant are allowed.
• Registration or stamping of the agreement as your state requires; ask the owner or a local lawyer.

While you live there

Pay by a traceable method and keep receipts. Report repairs in writing. Do not make changes to the home without agreement.

This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules differ between states and change over time, so confirm the details that matter to you with a qualified professional or the authority concerned before you act.