As a tenant, what am I required to do?

• Throw out your trash in a clean and safe manner;
• Use all fixtures (such as lights and ceiling fans) and appliances in a reasonable and safe manner;
• Don’t damage the apartment;
• Don’t disturb your neighbors;
• Make sure your family members and guests act appropriately;
• Provide your landlord with reasonable access to your unit (see below); and
• Obey all the lawful provisions of your lease agreement.

Do I have to tell my landlord I am moving if I have a written lease?
No. Your lease sets forth the date on which it ends, and you are supposed to move on that date unless you and your landlord agree to renew your lease agreement.

What if I do not have a written lease?
If you pay rent on a monthly basis, you must give your landlord 30 days written notice that you are moving out. Otherwise, you can be held liable for another month's rent. If you pay rent on a weekly basis, you give your landlord 7 days written notice that you are moving. Otherwise, you can be held liable for another week's rent. For more information, see the Leases and Subleases Guide.

Does my landlord have to give me him/her or anyone else's name, address and telephone number when I move into the apartment?
Yes. Your landlord must give you the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the:

• Owner or manager of the building; and
• Person who can receive, on your landlord's behalf, your notices and demands.

Must I have a written lease agreement?
No. You and your landlord may, if you want,enter into an oral lease agreement. If you have an oral agreement and pay rent on a monthly basis, you have a month-to-month tenancy which either you or your landlord can terminate with at least one month written notice. For more information, see the Leases and Subleases Guide.

When you rent an apartment - even if it's for a short period of time - having a lease is incredibly important. The lease, a written contract between a renter and a landlord or sublessor, protects your rights and provides clear guidance for the landlord/tenant relationship. Before entering into the lease, try negotiating to improve the deal. You just might be able to lower your rent or security deposit or get a reduced-price parking spot. The below video from Howcast.com walks you through the steps.

In the wake of the subprime mortgage crisis, even the most responsible renters can fall victim to eviction because of the financial woes of building owners.