6 Ways You Can Break Your Lease Without Knowing It

The following are some of the most common ways you could unknowingly breach your lease.

#1: Not Replacing Maintenance Items

As a tenant, you’re responsible for maintaining your apartment interior, including keeping your unit clean and reporting repairs. That preserves habitability and prevents deterioration and damage that could affect the property value.

You may also be expected to replace items including HVAC filters, burnt-out lightbulbs and dead fire alarm batteries. Check those items monthly to stay on top of apartment maintenance. Review your lease or consult your property management team to determine which tasks you’re responsible for to avoid violations and potential fees.

#2: Changing the Lock on Your Door

Security concerns, privacy issues and dated hardware may motivate you to replace the locks on your apartment doors. However, ask your landlord or property manager beforehand as doing so could result in damage and repairs.

If it’s not permitted in your lease, ask your property manager if they can still replace it. If you’re allowed to change the lock, provide a key to your landlord so they have access to your apartment in an emergency.

#3: Not Having Renters Insurance

Renters insurance protects you and your property manager from liability if someone is injured in your apartment. It also covers the cost of replacing your belongings in your unit and car if they’re stolen or damaged. Review your renters insurance requirements carefully and know the consequences of not having it. Failure to secure renters insurance may result in fines, lease termination or payment for damages or expenses.

#4: Getting a Pet

Living in an apartment with a pet can be an enjoyable experience, but your community might not allow animals. Even if you live in a pet-friendly apartment, there may be restrictions on breed, weight and number of animals outlined in your lease.

Pet fees are common in rental agreements, and you’ll be responsible for paying them even if you didn’t have a pet when you first moved. Notify your landlord about your intention of getting a pet as they may require you to pay a deposit or acquire pet insurance before you bring your animal into the unit.

#5: Subletting

Renting out your apartment or a portion of it to another person while honoring your lease agreement is considered subletting. Renters may consider subletting if they need to move out of an apartment but don’t want to incur penalties for breaking the lease. It’s also a solution for renters who’ve lost a roommate and want to replace them.

Most apartment rental agreements have specific stipulations regarding subletting, so read through your contract. Long-term guests may also toe the subtenant line, especially if they contribute to your expenses or bills. Make sure you understand your contract’s definition of an “extended stay,” because long-term guests may be considered unofficial tenants.

#6: Making Property Alterations

Decorating your space is one of the perks of living in an apartment. However, making certain modifications may be a breach of your lease. Those types of changes vary by contract, so talk with your property manager to determine what’s considered an alteration.

You may need prior approval before making changes such as:

• Painting walls
• Replacing lighting or plumbing fixtures
• Adding window treatments
• Using nails to hang décor, shelves and electronics
• Installing a security system or alarm

If you violate your lease by completing those alterations, you may be responsible for making repairs or paying for a service to complete them.

Move-In Ready Apartments in Columbus, Ohio

Ardent Communities has a wide selection of single- and multi-bedroom apartments to suit different lifestyles and budgets. We offer flexible lease agreements and work closely with you to ensure you understand your obligations and responsibilities. Contact us to schedule a tour.