Apartment Hunting Checklist

Security and Safety

• Doors have dead bolt locks?
• Patio/balcony door lock? Have a security bar?
• Does front door have a viewfinder (peephole)?
• Exterior doors 1-3/8" metal or solid wood?
• Windows open (stay open by themselves), close and lock?
• Hallway and outdoor lighting sufficient?

State of Repair

• Doors and windows fit securely in their frames?
• Any broken windows?
• All windows have screens? Any screens torn?
• Any spots on ceiling or walls from water leaks?
• Any evidence of mold on walls, floor or ceiling?
• Any faucets leak? Pipes under sinks leak?
• Does toilet flush properly?
• Exhaust fans in bathroom and kitchen?
• Any evidence of roaches?
• Any light fixture covers broken or missing?
• Covers on light switches and electrical outlets?
• Electrical outlets grounded (3-prong outlets)?
• Properly working smoke detector installed in each bedroom?
• Properly working carbon monoxide alarm within 15 feet of bedroom?
• If basement, any sign of seepage?

Furniture and Appliances

• Are refrigerator and freezer large enough?
• Is freezer self-defrosting?
• Are all appliances in good working order?
• Are blinds or curtains provided for windows?
• Is furniture in good condition?
• Will apartment need to be painted?
• Will carpet need to be replaced? Cleaned?
• Enough light in each room? Need lamps?

Don't Forget to Check

• Enough electrical outlets? Phone jacks?
• Hallways clean?
• Adequate storage space (closets, cabinets)?
• Will you have your own meter for every utility for which you must pay (gas, electric, water)?
• Will you have your own heat control?
• Sufficient hot water for showers (ask current tenants)?
• Water pressure adequate (ask current tenants)?
• Is the parking lot in good condition? Are any spaces too small or hard to maneuver because of a post or dumpster?
• Is the ramp to an underground lot too steep?
• Do you remember the apartment number so that when you sign the lease, you will be sure that you will be signing for the exact same apartment you saw?