How do Rent Increases work?
If a landlord is raising the rent, they have to let the tenant know. On a month-to-month lease, the landlord has to tell the tenant 28 days in advance.
Lease
What is a security deposit and how does it work?
It is a one-time deposit of money given to the landlord at the time of lease signing to ensure that rent will be paid and other responsibilities on the lease are performed. This covers the cost if damage comes to… Read More
How do Late Fees work?
It is legal for a landlord to charge late fees, but all fees must be disclosed in the lease. A common example of late fees pertains to rent. Rent is typically due by the 1st of every month. A landlord… Read More
Can I break my lease?
A landlord may agree to let a tenant out of a lease early. This should be given to the tenant in writing in case a dispute was to come up. If the landlord refuses to let a tenant out of the lease… Read More
Should I have roommates ready by the time I sign the lease?
Yes, absolutely! Under no circumstances should you sign a lease without your roommates! All tenants need to sign the lease and understand the contract each tenant is liable for. If choosing to sign a lease without having roommates ready, the… Read More
How much notice does a landlord have to provide to enter your unit for maintenance and repairs?
12 hours (may be shorter with tenant consent or for emergency situations). More information can be found in Step 16: Living in Your New Home of our Rental Timeline.
How much notice is required to terminate for non-payment or Breach of Lease – year lease?
14 days.
How much notice is legally required to terminate for a month-to-month lease?
28 days.
I just attended a showing and the landlord told me there are several people looking at the apartment and they expect the apartment to go fast. The landlord recommended we sign the lease right then and there. Should I sign the lease quickly to ensure I get the apartment first?
Never feel pressured to sign something right then and there. If you encounter a landlord that is pressuring you into signing something quickly, walk away! Landlords who pressure you are likely trying to prevent you from noticing something and carefully… Read More
Do people actually read their leases before signing?
Yes, it is always important to read the fine print before signing. UWM’s University Legal Clinic can provide help understanding the lease contract before signing. Since the lease spells out the tenant`s and landlord`s responsibilities, it is important for both… Read More