What Every Immigrant Needs to Know
12-15
Housing 12) Finding Housing
You can find housing through: - The Internet. - Talking with friends. - Classified ads in the newspaper. - Housing agencies. - Looking for “For Rent” or “For Lease” signs. Houses, apartments and mobile homes can come with or without furniture. It is possible to rent a single room in a house or an apartment. When you apply to rent, they might ask you for your social security number and references from employers and past landlords. These references can prove that you are responsible and will be able to pay rent. It is important to establish good relationships with your landlords. In the classifieds there are many abbreviations such as: FURN – furnished BR – bedroom BA – bathroom DEP – deposit
13) Renting
When you rent, you often need to pay a security deposit. The deposit is usually equal to one month of rent. If you damage the property, the landlord may keep part or all of your deposit and possibly charge you extra. Take photos of any problems before you move in. Renters are not responsible for normal wear and tear. For example, it’s the landlord’s responsibility to replace the dishwasher if it is old and does not function.
15) The Lease
14) Getting Problems Fixed
3
Landlords have to keep their properties safe and in good condition. If your apartment needs repairs: 1. Contract the landlord and explain the problem. 2. If they do not respond, send a letter and keep a copy of the letter. 3. If you get no response, call a local housing office.
A lease is the legal contract signed between the landlord and tenant. A lease has information including: - How much rent you pay each month. - Extra fees for late payment. - Who is responsible for paying water, electricity, gas, and trash service. - When the landlord can increase the rent and by how much. - The number of people who will live on the property. - How many months you can live on the property. If you want to continue living on the property when your lease ends, talk to the landlord about renewing the contract. A month-to-month lease states that the renter or landlord may end the contract with one month’s notice. If there are no changes from the renter or landlord, the lease automatically renews at the end of every month.
© 2021 Intercambio Uniting Communities. All Rights Reserved. No reproduction is permissible without prior consent from Intercambio Uniting Communities.
