Campus Information Center
- Tenant Information
- UI Master Calendar of Events
- Off Campus Housing Service
- Other Housing Resources
- Tutor Referral Service
Tenant Information
- Signing A Lease
- Moving
- Find A Home
- Landlord/Roommate Issues
Signing A Lease
Rental Agreements
The rental agreement is the backbone of your understanding with your landlord. Agreements can be written or oral and can last for any amount of time. Oral agreements, however, constitute a month-to-month lease and require one month’s notice to end the agreement. If you have any questions, contact Student Legal Services at (319) 335-3276.
It’s important to remember to read your lease carefully before you sign it. This is a legal agreement, and you will be held responsible for what you sign.
What Can Be Included
- Amount of rent to be paid
- When, where, and to whom the rent is to be paid
- Term length of rental agreement
- Number of tenants and their names
- Who is responsible for paying utilities (tenant or landlord)
- Requirement that tenant must tell landlord if tenant will be away from rental property for an extended period of time
What Can't Be Included
- Agreement to give up right or protection under landlord-tenant law
- Agreement to pay other person’s attorney fees
- Agreement in advance to forgive the other party for any responsibility for damages that may occur in the future to the property
- Agreement to “confess judgment” (lose automatically) if a legal dispute arises
Tips on Leasing
- Check condition of dwelling before moving in. Ask about bug problems, noise, prior rent increases, building security, bus routes, and the quality of appliances and plumbing. Keep in mind that your landlord will be reluctant to convey any negative information about the rental unit, so it may be helpful to contact Housing Inspection Services to inquire if the property has had previous housing code violations. If at all possible also try contacting former tenants.
- Make sure the price range fits your budget (including ‘hidden’ costs like utilities, parking, and living expenses).
- Determine the amount of the security deposit. This can be up to two months worth of rent.
- Read the lease thoroughly and make sure all items are understood. Pay close attention to rules regarding: subletting, paying rent, upkeep, repairs, utilities, pets, lease dates, guest rules, maximum occupancy, and parking.
- Negotiate with the landlord any special terms desired. Make sure any amendments, special terms or oral agreements are written out and signed by all parties.
- Some landlords require that the rent be paid in one check and will refuse your rent if you and your roommates offer separate checks.
- Check the lease to see if the landlord permitted to change the rules and regulations during the term of the lease.
- Get an inspection checklist from the landlord, to fill out upon moving in. This documents the original condition of the rental unit, which reduces the possibility of unnecessary deductions from the deposit. Have all parties on the lease go over the checklist together and keep signed and dated copies.
When Should I Sign a Lease?
You should sign a lease when you are absolutely sure you have found a rental unit that meets your needs. Try to view several different units and consider your priorities before signing a lease. Many property managers begin advertising fall rentals as early as January. Many students believe that if they don’t sign a lease in January, they will have a difficult time finding fall housing. This is not accurate. Many rental units in the area are not even advertised until late spring.