Colorado Springs and El Paso County Relocation ... - Keep Trees

Renting
Renting a home in Colorado Springs
and El Paso County is a way to learn
more about the community and settle
on a neighborhood or area of town to
live in while choosing a home to buy.
RENTAL TIPS
Many people rent before buying a home. There are
a few things you might want to know before signing
a lease for your rental; be sure to check the
following:
How much advance notice you must give before
moving. (Thirty days written notice is standard
when rent is paid monthly.)
Security-deposit refund restrictions.
The owner’s obligation to make needed repairs.
(A requirement for “reasonable promptness” is
common.)
Clean-up requirements. (Cleaning costs will usually
be deducted from your security deposit if you
fail to follow instructions.)
Any stipulations regarding subleasing, pets, or
the number of people allowed in the premises.
What utilities and services the owner pays and
what the tenant is responsible for.
Ask the manager to write any oral agreements,
changes or additions into the contract that you
sign and be sure to keep a copy. After you sign a
lease or rental agreement, you should:
1. Know who will manage your rental, where the
rent is to be sent, and who to call for maintenance
problems.
2. Keep track of your copy of the rental agreement,
signed by both you and the manager.
The lease is the most important set of rules to
follow if you have a disagreement.
3. Make a checklist of the condition of the rental
unit and any furnishings when you move in.
Sign it, have the apartment manager sign it,
and keep a dated copy. This will be your best
defense in any dispute over deductions for
repairs when you move out.
4. Keep your rent or lease payments current.
Late payments will incur a late fee, affect your
credit history, and could make you subject to
eviction and even affect your ability to lease
properties in the future.
24 Colorado Springs Relocation GUIDE 2007