Rental tours made easy: What to check and ask

Key takeaways

• Document each tour and stay organized: Take photos and notes to keep track of features and compare properties after multiple visits. 
• Look beyond appearances during walk-throughs: Check for odors, pests, functionality, water quality and safety features to catch potential problems early. 
• Ask detailed questions and research the landlord: Understanding costs, policies and management practices — and verifying reputation — can help you avoid surprises later. 

All your preparation has led to this moment: beginning your rental search. You’ve gathered references, checked your credit, set a budget and narrowed down where to look. Now it’s time to start touring homes.

Along the way, you may run into a few challenges, from maintenance issues to less-than-ideal layouts. The right rental is out there. To help you find it, here’s what to look for and the questions to ask.

Take photos of each property you visit and keep them organized by property. After touring multiple homes, details can blur together. Photos can help you compare options and get feedback from friends or family.

As you walk through each rental, watch for:

• Odors: Pay attention to smells like mold, cigarette smoke, sewage or pet odor. These could signal larger issues. 
• Signs of pests: Check under sinks, inside closets and along corners for traps, droppings or other evidence. 
• Appliances: Open the refrigerator and oven to check for cleanliness, damage or lingering odors. 
• Functional layout: Make sure doors and appliances don’t block walkways. Watch for cramped layouts or awkward flow. 
• Water quality and pressure: Turn on faucets to ensure the water runs clear and test the shower pressure. 
• Safety features: Look for working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and a fire extinguisher. Check that doors and windows lock properly. 

Asking the right questions can help you avoid surprises and better understand how the property is managed. It also gives insight into what your lease may include.

Consider asking:

• How do I pay rent? Payment may be handled online, in person or by mail. Ask about late fees and when they’re applied. 
• What’s included in the rent? Some landlords include utilities or services like garbage collection. Ask about additional fees for amenities or homeowner association costs. 
• What are the move-in costs? You may need a security deposit, first and last month’s rent, application fees or cleaning deposits. 
• Is there a guest policy? Some landlords limit how long guests can stay. 
• What’s the parking situation? Ask about assigned spaces, guest parking or shared lots. 
• How much notice is required before moving out? Requirements typically range from 30 to 60 days, but may be longer. 
• Can I have a roommate or sublet? Clarify rules and whether additional tenants must be added to the lease. 
• How are repairs handled? Ask how maintenance requests are submitted and who completes the work. 
• How do I get my security deposit back? Understand expectations for the property’s condition upon move-out. 
• What’s the pet policy? Ask about restrictions, deposits, fees and monthly pet rent. 
• Can I decorate or make changes? Some landlords allow painting or minor updates if the property is restored before move-out. 
• Who handles yard maintenance? For single-family homes, clarify responsibilities for mowing, landscaping or snow removal. 
• Are there future plans for the property? Ask whether the owner plans to sell or occupy the home. 

Once you’ve found a rental you like, research the landlord or property management company. Read online reviews and check ratings with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau. If renting from an individual, consider talking to current or former tenants and confirming the property is not at risk of foreclosure.

With the right preparation, you can find a rental that fits your needs. Keep in mind that certain situations, such as renting with pets, may require extra effort and flexibility.

This story was updated on May 6.