Landlords who are not via agencies .

SunshineLover2011 wrote:

Hi,

Im am talking to a landlord with regards to renting his apartment.

Since its a personal ad in the paper there is no agents involved.

What should I look out for with regards to him possibly keeping deposits,saying I havnt paid rent,etc etc....

Thanks.

For what it's worth: -

Always make sure that you have a contract that is specific to your agreements and stipulates what is and what is not included within the agreement.

Never accept "don't worry we'll sort that out later" and

if possible, always pay the rent by either direct debit or bank transfer... if cash is insisted upon, make sure that you have a physical rent book and that every payment is logged and signed for.

Finally, if the landlord wishes to recharge for utlities (Electricity, Water etc) right out the outset demand that copies of the relevant bills from the service supplier are made available to you.

Apart from that, stick to common sense...it usually prevails!

Good luck

Mike

Dont be surprised if the landlord still keeps the deposit they never ever like to return it.

I agree with sunshinelovers remarks 100%, get a written contract have it witnessed and ensure all three parties sign it. Make sure its clear, watch out for hidden costs such as communal costs - stairways cleaning, lighting and lift charges.

As for the bills if its in his name (make sure you see the full copy of it not just the front page)....watch out for the costs and the number of consumers/occupiers the more there is (upto 5) the more allowances you get... He/she is unlikely to get the eco discounts as he will only get that once (for his own dwelling) so try and get him to change it into your own in name or at least get him to declare you (and your family if appropriate) as consumer/occupiers  as this can make a significant difference in your bills as much as 30-40 euros a month. Be aware though you need to be a taxpayer or have residency here as an id card is not normally enough.

Watch out also for anything in the contract relating to everyday repairs etc. Some landlords accept this as their responsibility others can put a limit in place...such as upto 20 euros its your responsibility and over it its theirs. Each landlord is different.

Also be careful about pets (if you have them or are considering one)some allow them some dont. Most will allow it as long as you declare that you will re-imburse them for any cleaning or damage related to the keeping of a pet ..when and if you decide to terminate or leave.

Watch out also for the clause about when and under what conditions he can terminate your lease.....and the appropriate notice periods.

Anyway good luck - i think i have covered most of the stuff we have come across in three years of renting here.

BE CAREFULL of teh electric bill issue!  Be sure the electricity readings are taken the day you move in, AND that you have a reasonable agreement and/or you have a seperate meter... 

this has come up many times as a huge issue in here over the past few months, and there have been lawsuits mentioned. 

Chad