Random Warning Signs To Be Look Out For When Renting (15 items)

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  (#8) Obvious Signs Of Damage

  One of the more visible warning signs of a questionable rental property is the presence of physical damage. Windows, light fixtures, fans, and moldings should all be in one piece and free of cracks and holes. If there are chips in the sink or the countertop, it doesn't necessarily need to be a deal-breaker, but report it to the landlord immediately in case it develops into a larger issue; take photos of it and send it to them if necessary.

  Also, be on the lookout for stains. If carpets, walls, or ceilings are stained, it could be a sign of water damage or it could just be a sign of a landlord who doesn't care.
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  (#1) Visible Signs Of Water Damage

  Water damage most often results from plumbing leaks or leaks in the roof. Signs of water damage can be obvious - such as standing water on the floor - or it can be more subtle, like discolored patches in the ceiling, walls, or flooring.

  Another good way to check for water damage is to give the property a good sniff. Water-damaged spaces smell damp, musty, and stale. If left untreated, water damage can encourage mold growth; allergic-like reactions, respiratory infections, and memory loss are just a few symptoms of mold infestation.
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  (#10) Appliances Don't Work

  If the electricity is hooked up in the apartment you're touring, test out the appliances. Plug the refrigerator in and confirm all lights are on and the motor is running. If you have a smartphone charger with you, test out a few of the electrical outlets in the property to make sure they all have juice.

  Be sure to test out gas appliances as well. Turn on each burner of the stove and make sure they light. Flip the oven on and make sure it warms up. 
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  (#15) No Fire Extinguishers

  In addition to smoke detectors, some states also require landlords to provide working fire extinguishers to their rental properties. In California, for example, a landlord is not legally obliged to furnish individual fire extinguishers to tenants. There does, however, need to be a certain amount of extinguishers available in public areas like hallways, parking garages, and building lobbies.

  Check with your local fire safety council before touring prospective rentals and find out what the requirement is in your area. If there is a noticeable lack of extinguishers, especially in common areas, ask the landlord about it. 
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  (#3) Suspicious Rental Agreements

  Before paying a deposit or agreeing to rent a property, ask to see the lease or rental agreement. While both documents serve the same purpose of establishing a tenant-landlord contract, a lease is used for a fixed, longer-term rental, such as a year's lease. A rental agreement is used for shorter-term contracts, like month-to-month leases.

  Regardless of the type the landlord is using, review the document carefully beforehand. All wording should be legally sound and clear. Read the policies and fees regarding early termination, pets, and late payments. If there is language that puts you on the hook for repairs or upgrades that are not your fault or responsibility, don't sign. When in doubt, consult a lawyer.
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  (#11) Inadequate Smoke And CO2 Detectors

  Most states require landlords to provide working smoke detectors in rental units. About half of the states in the union require carbon monoxide detectors as well.

  See that the rental you're considering has at least the minimum amount of smoke and CO2 detectors as determined by your state. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there should be a smoke detector on each level of the property, and there should be a smoke detector in each bedroom. Test smoke alarms every six months. Always keep fresh batteries on hand in case the existing ones in the devices run low.

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