Join the J.C. Hart Team! Click here to see our current job openings.
A J.C. Hart Apartment Community in Indianapolis, IN
 

Navigating Rental Lease Agreements In Indianapolis: What To Know Before Moving

April 10, 2024
Exterior view of The Hamilton Luxury Apartment Homes in Fishers.

Signing a lease to rent an apartment can seem daunting, especially if you’ve never faced one before. Although it’s fair to say some rental lease agreements in Indianapolis pack in more legal jargon than others, they are generally reasonably simple. Take a moment to see what you may expect to find in a lease and what you ought to look out for to keep yourself protected.

What Are Common Aspects Of Apartment Lease Agreements in Indianapolis?

Fenced dog park at The District at Saxony Apartment Homes

Each apartment lease agreement will have the basics, like the rent cost, the rental length, and the names of everyone living in the unit. You might also see other information specific to the community. As a general rule, you can plan to see the following:

  • Names of Resident and landlord. Customarily, the property owner will be called the “lessor” and the tenant as the “lessee.”
  • Description of the property. This information covers the property name, physical address, and your apartment’s number. When looking at the agreement, it may be referred to as “the premises.”
  • Contract length. The length of your rental is a vital detail. You can expect to see the start and ending dates.
  • Names of tenants. Expect to list all people who will reside in the dwelling.
  • Amount of rent. The contract ought to detail the amount of rent due every month. You will also discover a due date, payment instructions, acceptable payment forms, and details about late fees.
  • Security deposit and fees. The security deposit cost ought to be listed. If there are additional costs like move-out cleaning fees, they need to be listed also.
  • Utilities. Each contract will detail what utilities you have a responsibility to pay. The document might also identify any other costs associated with your utilities.
  • Pet restrictions. Your Indianapolis rental lease agreement will state if pets are welcomed, what sorts, and if there are weight or size limitations. You’ll also find info about monthly or one-time pet costs.
  • Resident responsibilities. This section of the agreement outlines what is expected of Residents, including simple maintenance duties like switching out light bulbs and getting rid of garbage in authorized places.
  • Landlord obligations. This section informs you of what is the responsibility of the property manager, such as plumbing, leaking roofs, and electrical concerns.
  • These are the fundamental aspects of a lease, but you can also come across restrictions on how you may use the property. For instance, you will probably not be allowed to sublease or partake in commercial endeavors. Make sure you grasp the restrictions, and be sure to ask questions.

    What To Watch For In Indianapolis Rental Lease Agreements

    Clubhouse at Continuum apartments in West Lafayette

    If you’re moving to a reputable apartment community in Indianapolis, you won’t need to worry much about dubious clauses buried in the agreement. But you must always protect yourself. Here are some warning signals to watch out for:

    • A clause in an agreement that allows changing of a lease. Don’t sign a contract that isn’t complete or authorizes a landlord| to make changes after you sign.
    • Lease agreements where the Resident is required to handle all apartment repairs.
    • Agreed-upon terms aren’t reflected. For example, if you come to an agreement on a lease shorter than the year or work out a reduced security deposit, make sure it’s included.
    • Sign Your New Lease At City's End - Fountain Square Apartments In Indianapolis

      Are you ready to find your new home? Schedule a tour at City's End - Fountain Square Apartments in Indianapolis and discover our distinctive units and popular amenities. If you would like to ask about the lease, our office staff is standing by to help. Reach out to 463-231-3192 today to get started.