Renters’ Tips
Visit apartment complexes to see what the apartments are like. Talk to several landlords who are advertising apartments, if possible, before you make your move.

What can a renter do to protect against the “If only I’d known” syndrome? Doing your homework before you move in will significantly reduce the chance that you picked the wrong place. That means running the shower, flushing the toilet, and visiting the apartment at different times in the day. Don’t forget to ask the neighbors how they like the neighborhood and whether they’ve experienced any problems.

In looking for an apartment, you should ask many questions including:

• How often is the building cleaned and who cleans it?
• Are there any special conditions on the tenancy, such as no waterbeds, no pets, or no air conditioners?
• Who is the owner of the building; and is the building up for sale or condo conversion?
• Why is the apartment available and how long has it been empty?

Renters’ Services
If you are new to the area and have limited time to find a place to rent, you may wish to consult a property management agency usually associated with a Realtor’s office. Some of the larger Realtors who have nationwide affiliations have property management services in their offices that provide assistance for renters in locating rental homes and apartments. These agencies have several offices in Santa Clarita Valley.

Although this is a quick method of locating a residence, remember you should also look on your own. Talk to friends and acquaintances about neighborhoods and amenities in the area.

There are also a number of publications in the area that can help you find your new home. Newspaper listings are also a valuable resource for finding vacancies in the area. Research rental prices in the various neighborhoods, then determine what you are willing to pay (typically no more than one-third your monthly salary) and see determine whether your preferred location is within your budget.

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,076 per month, while the average rent for a two-bedroom is $1,377. The median monthly rent is approximately $943, which is higher than that paid by renters overall in both Los Angeles County and California, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Apartment Renting
Apartments and condominium complexes are located throughout the valley. The complexes usually provide tenants parking spaces, laundry facilities, a clubhouse, and sometimes swimming pools. Available rentals offer one or more of the following amenities: barbecues; television cable, hook-up, or satellite; covered parking or enclosed garages; handicap units; fireplaces; fitness facilities and trails; laundry facilities or hook-ups; patios or balconies; playgrounds; pools; recreation rooms; tennis courts; security systems; and spas or Jacuzzis.

Some apartment or condominium agencies also offer pet policies that allow for “small” pets. However, an extra deposit may be required for this service. Some of the rental complexes are gated, offering more security to their tenants. Tenants are issued keys or key cards for admittance into a gated complex.

Condominiums and Townhouses
Townhouses and condos have more to offer — a more permanent feel of a community and neighborhood. Young families, seniors and singles find renting condos fits better with their lifestyle. Although the number of condo complexes is limited, the larger communities provide better choices.

Rental Process
When you find the right place, you will be asked to fill out an application form and pay advance rent and a security deposit equal to one month’s rent. Be prepared to provide current references from landlords and employers, friends and colleagues, as well as a current copy of your credit report. If you do not have a copy of your credit report, you most likely will have to pay a small fee for the credit check.

Make sure the security deposit refund procedures are spelled out in your lease or rental agreement. Protect yourself by making sure your lease or rental agreement is clear on the use and refund of security deposits. Understand the lease and house rules before you decide to move into the unit.

Take photographs of your apartment when you move in and out in case a dispute with the landlord should arise. Pay attention when your landlord completes your move-in checklist. If your landlord doesn’t note all of the damage, you could be charged for it when you move out.

Renters’ Rights
Landlords are required to offer their tenants livable premises, including adequate weatherproofing; heat, water and electricity; and clean, sanitary and structurally safe premises. If your rental unit is not kept in good repair, you have a number of options ranging from withholding a portion of the rent to pay for repairs to calling the building inspector.

Note that in California, property management must provide you with a working smoke detector.

Protect your privacy rights. For example, pay attention to the guidelines spelling out how much notice your landlord must give you before entering your unit.

Save any documents related to the apartment, such as receipts for your monthly payments. Remember, you can ask your landlord to make repairs. But put your request in writing and keep a copy for yourself. If he agrees orally, send a letter confirming this fact.

Keep communication lines open with your landlord. If something is broken, report it right away. If you cannot pay the rent one month, be assured the landlord will notice your missing check.

When you move out, the apartment manager is required to refund your deposit within 30 days or give you a written explanation of damages and delays.

If you have any question concerning your rights as a tenant, you can call the National Apartment Association at 703/518-614l for information.

Rental Insurance
Look around your apartment and imagine what it would be like if you lost everything in a fire or natural disaster. Your landlord will not cover your possessions in case of theft or disaster. Renters’ insurance can help replace your possessions. Check with a local insurance agent for information about purchasing an insurance policy to protect your valuables. Renters’ insurance typically costs $350 a year for a $50,000 policy that covers loss due to theft, damage caused by other people or natural disasters.

Signing a Lease
Signing a lease for an apartment or house is a binding contract. The lease is a legal agreement that states the monthly rent, the amount of security deposit, and initial length of time you will live there.

If you have a lease, you may find you want to move at a later time than when the lease expires. The best way to plan a move that does not coincide with the end of your lease is to negotiate a month-to-month rental agreement when your lease is up.

Many landlords do not mind changing to a month-to-month agreement after you have finished your first year’s lease. After all, it gives them the flexibility to raise your rent whenever they want. Keep in mind, however, month-to-month rents are typically higher than those locked in by a long-term lease.

Giving Notice
Most rental agreements are on a month-to-month basis. You need to give your landlord 30 days notice before you move. This does not mean you should mail your notice exactly 30 days before your departure. Depending on local laws, your notice may have to arrive in your landlord’s mailbox at least 30 days prior to your move. So, to be safe, send your letter well in advance.