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APARTMENT GUIDE 1
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fixed right away. If you move in and something's not, right tell the landlord you want to get it fixed as soon as possible. Then, get it in writing to guarantee it will get done."
TOP 15 THINGS TO CHECK OUT BEFORE RENTING
The Kansas Tenants Handbook suggests asking the landlord for the "check-out list or a list of things he or she will expect to be done and will inspect when you leave. These are things you want to look at closely when moving in. You are to return the unit in as good a condition as when received except for normal wear and tear."
Shopping around and starting her search for an apartment early helped Jessica Cassin, Overland Park freshman, find her perfect fit. She is already signed up to live in Meadowbrook Apartments next year.
"It's a nice complex and it's pretty close to campus," Cassin said. "It really gave me bang for my buck. The new apartments are so nice and they have tons of floor plans to choose from."
It's important to be thorough during an
1. Check the hallways and stairs.
2. Check the locks on the doors.
6. Look for signs of rodents and insects.
7. Check the heat.
12. Check for lead paint.
3. Check the plumbing, including pipes around any radiators.
8. Ask about utilities.
13. If an apartment is furnished, check the condition of the furniture.
4. Check the electrical wiring.
5. Check the floor, walls, and ceilings.
9. Check for garbage or trash containers.
14. Find out who is expected to take care of the yard, halls,and sidewalks.
10. Make sure the appliances work.
11. Check the windows and screens.
15. Ask whether parking is available or guaranteed.
Source: Kansas Tenants Handbook
apartment search, but all the effort will pay off in the end.
"When I first went apartment searching
the hottest day of July. Try to get an early start."
in Lawrence I looked at 20 different places before I found the right one," Larzalere said. "Make a day of it, but don't wait until
— Edited by Liz Schubauer
FEBRUARY 26, 2009
THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN