Move-In Checklist

Give your unit a thorough inspection before you move in. It's best to inspect the premises before you move in; it will be easier to spot problems while the place is bare.

Don't neglect to check out things that might not be readily apparent, such as water pressure and sink drainage in the kitchen and bathrooms, the operation of appliances, the appearance of floors and walls, and the condition of the pads under the carpet.

Make a detailed inventory of what you find. The best way to do this is with a good checklist. The more you record about the unit when you move in, the better position you'll be in when moving out to show that certain problems already existed before you moved into the unit.

In some states, landlords are required to give new tenants a written statement on the condition of the unit at move-in time, including a comprehensive list of existing damage. In other states, many landlords provide a checklist to new tenants, but some do not. You can write up a checklist yourself.

Renter's Need to Know

RIGHTS & DISPUTES
How Evictions Work
Your landlord can't evict you unless he has has gone to court and proved that you did something wrong that justifies ending the tenancy.

And your landlord can't proceed with an eviction lawsuit without terminating the tenancy first.

This usually means giving you adequate written notice, in a specified way and form.

If you don't move (or pay back rent) after proper notice, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit.

7. Don't spend all your money on the down payment.

If you're moving into your first home, you'll have to buy things you never needed before, such as lawn mowers, yard tools and major appliances. You'll need cash for these purchases unless you're planning to mire yourself in credit card debt.

Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This is the agency responsible for enforcing the federal Fair Housing Act.

Federal laws that prohibit housing discrimination on the basis of race or color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability.

The federal Acts apply to all aspects of the landlord/tenant relationship, from refusing to rent to members of certain groups to providing different services during tenancy.

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