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Navigating Rental Lease Agreements In Indianapolis: What To Know Before You Sign

April 10, 2024
Exterior view of The Hamilton Luxury Apartment Homes in Fishers.

Completing an agreement to rent an apartment may seem unnerving, specially if it’s your first time. Even though it’s factual some rental lease agreements in Indianapolis pack in more legal jargon than others, they are usually fairly straightforward. Take a moment to learn what you can expect to find in a lease and what to look out for to protect your best interests.

What Are Typical Parts Of Apartment Lease Agreements in Indianapolis?

Fenced dog park at The District at Saxony Apartment Homes

Every apartment lease agreement will include the basics, like the cost of rent, the rental length, and the names of those who will live in the apartment. You may also discover other details about the apartment complex. In general, you can anticipate finding the following:

  • Names of landlord and Resident. In most contracts, the housing provider will be identified as the “lessor” and the tenant as the “lessee.”
  • Property description. You will be provided the property’s name, physical address, and your unit’s number. When looking at the lease, it may be called “the premises.”
  • Terms of the tenancy. The length of your rental is a vital detail. You can expect to see the beginning and ending dates.
  • Names of inhabitants. Be prepared to list everyone who will live in the unit.
  • Amount of rent. The lease will indicate the rental amount due monthly. You will also see a due date, instructions on how to pay, acceptable ways to pay, and info regarding late fees.
  • Security deposit requirements. The security deposit dollar amount should be listed. If there are other charges like move-out cleaning fees, they ought to be listed too.
  • Utilities. Your contract will indicate what utilities you are responsible for paying. The lease might also specify any other billing fees associated with your utilities.
  • Pet restrictions. Your Indianapolis rental lease agreement will tell you if pets are welcomed, what kinds, and if there are other limitations. You’ll also see information regarding monthly or one-time pet costs.
  • Resident obligations. This portion of the lease identifies what you are responsible for, covering basic maintenance tasks like switching out light bulbs and getting rid of garbage in authorized bins.
  • Landlord obligations. This section informs you of what falls under the purview of the housing provider, such as plumbing fixes, leaking roofs, and electrical repairs.
  • This list covers the most common parts of a lease, but you can also expect to find restrictions on how you may make use of your unit. For example, subleasing or using the apartment for commercial purposes may be prohibited. Make certain you understand the restrictions, and feel free to ask questions.

    What To Watch For In Indianapolis Rental Lease Agreements

    Clubhouse at Continuum apartments in West Lafayette

    If you’re leasing at a respected apartment community in Indianapolis, you won’t need to worry much about suspect clauses buried in the agreement. But you should always be on the lookout. Here are a couple red flags to keep an eye on:

    • Language in a rental contract that authorizes amendments to a lease. Don’t sign a lease that doesn’t look complete or authorizes the housing provider| to make adjustments after you sign.
    • Lease agreements where tenants are responsible for all repairs and maintenance.
    • Term adjustments aren’t recorded. To illustrate, if you agree to a lease less than the year or arrange a smaller security deposit, be sure it’s documented.
    • Start Your Lease At StoneBridge Luxury Apartment Homes In Indianapolis

      Ready to find your new home? Request a tour at StoneBridge Luxury Apartment Homes in Indianapolis and discover our roomy units and popular amenities. If you have a question about the leasing agreement, our friendly representatives are standing by to help you. Dial 317-743-2959 today to learn more.