Reading a Lease Agreement: Helpful Tips

Reading a lease agreement for a new Rental in San Marcos can be confusing. Sometimes it's hard to know what terms you need to take special note of in your contract. Luckily, the Texas Apartment Association has compiled a list of particulars that are extra important to focus on when reading the lease for your new home.

First off, make sure you know what the details are of paying rent: when it is due and to whom and where it should be turned in. If you do pay your rent late, what is the late charge, if any, and when does it apply? You also should pay attention to how much advance notice you need to give before moving at the end of your lease term. Not giving enough notice can result in you having to pay rent at two places and you also need to know what the penalties are if you "break" your lease, i.e. move out before your lease ends. What limitations affect the return of your security deposit and are there any specific instructions for cleaning the apartment when you move out? Can cleaning fees be deducted from your security deposit?

Make sure to visit the TAA for all the specifics that you should read extra carefully when signing your lease to avoid unwelcome surprises!