Renting a home or apartment can be a wonderful option when you aren’t interested or able to own your own home or property. Renting comes with many benefits and meets the needs of so many people around the world. 

Renting does also come with some risks. If you aren’t careful, you can find yourself in unfair lease agreements or unsafe environments, all at the mercy of your landlord. 

Luckily, getting into tricky renting situations can be avoided if you know how to be a smart renter. 

As renters insurance agents in Springfield, Ohio we have seen our fair share of unfortunate renter arrangements or agreements. We have also seen many renters make the right steps to protect themselves, their belongings, and their bank accounts.

How to be a Smart Renter

All renters have rights. Some of these rights are guaranteed and regulated by law. Other rights will be agreed upon and negotiated within your lease. Before you renew your lease or sign a new lease, go through our tips to be a smart renter and protect yourself in case things go wrong. 

Purchase Renters Insurance: This is one of the first things you do when you become a renter. Your landlord’s insurance will cover the property itself, but it won’t protect your belongings. In the event of a fire, flood, water damage, theft, or other natural disasters, your belongings would be vulnerable and you would be left with no protection. 

Renter insurance will cover damage or loss of your personal items due to a number of different circumstances. Our team at Link-Hellmuth Insurance can help be sure you get adequate coverage based on your personal needs. 

Know the law: Investigate what the tenant/landlord laws are in your state, before signing a new lease. This will help you understand the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including what can legally be included in your rental agreement and how much a landlord can charge for things like a security deposit.

Read your Contract THOROUGHLY: Make sure to read through your entire lease agreement carefully so you have a clear understanding of everything you are agreeing to. 

Inspect the property BEFORE you move in: Before you settle into your new place, it’s important to document the condition of the property. This will prevent you from being charged for items that were already damaged when you moved in. Take photos, ask questions, and make sure that both you and your landlord are on the same page.

Notify in writing: When any need for repairs comes up or damage occurs, You can make a phone call to seek help in a hurry, but always also notify your landlord in writing. That way, if the landlord fails to resolve the issue, you will have documentation to support you in any dispute.

Execute your responsibilities: Know what your responsibilities are in caring for the property. Pay your rent on time, take out the trash, keep the property clean, and clean up after pets. If you violate any terms of your agreement, your landlord could have reason to terminate your lease.  

Renters Insurance in Springfield Ohio

There are many ways to protect yourself as a renter and act responsibly when entering a lease agreement. For renters insurance near Springfield, Ohio contact our team at Link-Hellmuth today.