Negotiation Rights for Apartment Renters
As a renter, you may think the landlord holds all the power, but you actually have an important tool at your disposal -- negotiation. You can negotiate almost any aspect of a lease agreement before you move into a new rental unit. You can ask the landlord to lower the rent, make needed repairs or alter the lease to something more suited to your needs.
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Fees
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Many landlords offer specials on their rent prices. Even if the landlord does not have a special deal posted, you can still ask for a reduced rent rate. The landlord probably won't knock off half the rent price, but he may reduce the monthly rate if you negotiate the terms with him. For example, you can offer to sign a longer lease for a reduced rate. You can also negotiate the terms of the security or pet deposit. For example, you could ask the landlord to split the deposit up over two or three months.
Repairs
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You can request that the landlord make repairs or complete small upgrades to a rental property in exchange for your signing a lease. Legally, a landlord only has to make repairs to keep the property in a safe and livable condition, but you can ask for other repairs. For example, you can request that the landlord add a fresh coat of paint or have the carpets cleaned professionally. You can also ask for upgrades. For example, a landlord may install a washer and dryer in your apartment if you pay a slightly higher monthly rent.
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Lease Clauses
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You can work with the landlord to add special clauses to the lease agreement. These clauses go above and beyond the standard lease, and protect you from problems in the future. For example, if you have a pet, the landlord should add a pet agreement to your lease. If you frequently have an overnight guest, you can ask your landlord to specify the visitors' policy. Work with your landlord to make the lease specific to you and your personal needs. This will help avoid conflict between you and the landlord in the future.
Warnings
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Make sure you get any negotiations with your landlord in writing; do not just take the landlord's word for it. Request that the landlord provide you with a written lease, even if your state laws allow for a verbal lease agreement. Check the lease carefully and ensure the landlord included everything you discussed before you sign the agreement. Without written documentation, you cannot hold the landlord accountable for any agreements.
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References
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