Here is a useful FAQ (frequently asked questions) about life as an apartment renter, adapted from an online Apartment Renting FAQ at Apartment Renter's Resource.

1. Can I move out of my apartment before the lease is up?

No. If your lease specifies that you will occupy the apartment for a certain time you are obligated to pay the rent for the entire length of the lease. Some landlords, however, will allow you to move out early by paying a "termination fee". Check before you plan to move out.

2. Can I refuse to pay my rent because my landlord hasn't made repairs?

No. Your options in most states are either to move out at no termination fee or to pay for the repair and deduct it from the rent. Refusing to pay your rent is NEVER a good idea, though in California you are allowed to withhold rent under certain circumstances. But you'd better talk to a lawyer first.

3. Is my landlord responsible for damages to my possessions from a fire in the building?

No. You may be able to recover something from your landlord if you can show that the damage was due to his negligence, but it's a good idea to get renter's insurance if you are worried about recovering damages from fire, flood, etc.

4. Can my landlord keep my security deposit if I don't clean my carpet when I move out?

No. State laws vary, but landlords typically are only able to deduct the actual cost of repairs for damage over and above normal wear and tear. So, at most, your landlord can only charge you for the actual cost of the carpet cleaning.

5. Can my landlord make me move because I play my stereo too loud?

Technically, yes. Most leases contain a "quiet enjoyment" clause that basically says you can't disrupt your neighbors. If you do you could be in violation of the terms of your lease, and your landlord has cause to evict you.

6. Do I have to pay if I want my lock changed?

Yes. Unless the existing lock is defective or in violation of a building code, in most states a landlord is under no obligation to replace it.

7. Can my landlord tell me I have to take down my blinds?

Technically, yes. Most leases prohibit the tenant from making modifications to the premises without obtaining the approval - usually in writing - of the landlord in advance. Putting up blinds could be considered an unauthorized modification. You're probably out of luck if the landlord says you have to take it down.

8. If I receive a "pay rent or quit" notice, does that mean that if I move out, I don't have to pay?

No. If you move out you will still be obligated to pay whatever charges are specified by your lease which could include such things as a lease cancellation fee, a charge for inadequate notice of your intent to vacate and a cost of reletting.

9. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have two children?

No. Federal fair housing law states that your familial status can not be used by a landlord to deny you housing.

10. Can a landlord keep my application deposit if I never sign the lease and do not move in?

Yes. Most states allow the landlord to keep all or a portion of any your deposit if you cancel after a certain span of time - frequently 72 hours.

Apartments for Rent

Welcome to our "Apartments for Rent" section. Here you can find information on Furnished Apartments, Studio Apartments, 1 Bedroom Apartments, 2 Bedroom Apartments, Low Income Apartments, Rent Controlled Apartments, Loft Apartments, High Rise Apartments, Houses for Rent, and vacation home rentals. In addition to actual listings of houses and apartments for rent, we provide a brief definition and description of each type of rental.