--- title: What to Consider Before Signing a Rental Living Agreement description: While searching for rental properties in Chico, Redding or throughout Northern California, it's important to understand your rental agreement. image: https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Rental_Agreement.jpg --- ![What to Consider Before Signing a Rental Living Agreement](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Rental_Agreement.jpg) [Apartment LivingApartment Living](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/tag/apartment-living) --- # What to Consider Before Signing a Rental Living Agreement By  [ Hignell Rentals Team Written by Hignell Rentals Team ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/author/hignell-rentals-team)    |    Apr 11, 2017 12:00:00 AM Share this Blog [![Share on facebook](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/facebook-icon.svg) ](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook) [![Share on twitter](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/twitter-icon.svg) ](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&url=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&source=tweetbutton&text=) [![Share on instagram](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/instagram-icon.svg) ](http://www.instagram.com/share.php?u=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=instagram) [![Share on linkedin](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/linkedin-icon.svg) ](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin) [![Share on whatsapp](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/whatsapp-icon.svg) ](https://web.whatsapp.com) ![Rental_Agreement](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Rental_Agreement.jpg?width=420&name=Rental_Agreement.jpg)Before you commit to living in a rental property in Chico, Redding or other Northern California rental, it's crucial you understand your rental agreement. Take the time to read every word and ask questions so you clearly understand what you're agreeing to -- you're signing a legally binding contract after all.** ** ## **What type of lease is it?** There are different types of leases. Rental properties in Chico and Redding have leases that are [month-to-month and fixed-term leases](http://apartments.about.com/od/leaseshouserules/a/fixedormonthly.htm). If your rent is month-to-month, you don’t have to worry about moving into the rental and finding out that it isn’t the place for you. But if you are on a fixed-term lease of 6 months or a year, then your options of moving out early and not having to pay the rent for the fixed amount of time you committed to are slim. ## **What happens if I break my lease to move somewhere else?** If you break your lease without paying the remainder of your due rent, then you are considered in **breach of your contract**. This is not good for your rental history and can prevent you from being able to rent in the future. It's important to stay within your lease. ## **How do you get out of the lease?** Most rental properties require that you give a full [30-day notice](http://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Letter-of-Notice-to-Your-Landlord) in writing. This is why it's important to know when your lease is up, if it automatically turns into a month-to-month, if you need to sign a new lease with new terms or whatever the case may be. There are many different options so it’s important to make sure you aren’t without a home and have to go back to looking for another rental property. ## **What exactly does my rent pay for?** Every rental property is different regarding what you're responsible for paying. Does your rent just pay for the unit or does it pay for a few of the utilities as well? You need to have a **clear understanding** of what you're financially responsible for especially when budgeting and switching over the utilities. You don’t want to have your electricity or cable cut off when you are in the middle of a Walking Dead Marathon. ## **What are the community and unit rules?** In order to make sure that the complex is orderly and the units stay clean, there are rules that residents must adhere to. Quiet hours, parking rules, BBQ regulations and more are covered in the lease agreement. Make sure you **know what these rules are**.  If you have any questions while you're reviewing and signing your lease, make sure that you **ask for clarification**. If you see any errors make sure that you say something **before** you sign the lease. There are many great rental properties in Chico, Redding and throughout Northern California for you to choose from, and they'll all require a lease and rental agreement so get to know the process now. Remember, if it’s in writing, then it’s binding! Share this Blog [![Share on facebook](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/facebook-icon.svg) ](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook) [![Share on twitter](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/twitter-icon.svg) ](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&url=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&source=tweetbutton&text=) [![Share on instagram](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/instagram-icon.svg) ](http://www.instagram.com/share.php?u=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=instagram) [![Share on linkedin](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/linkedin-icon.svg) ](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin) [![Share on whatsapp](https://fs.hubspotusercontent00.net/hubfs/4172253/OneTheme/social-icons/whatsapp-icon.svg) ](https://web.whatsapp.com) [** Previous Post Previous Post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/things-to-consider-before-moving-out-of-your-chico-or-redding-apartment) [** View all posts ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/) [Next Post ** Next Post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/best-selfie-spots-in-chico) ## Recent Posts [![How to Rent an Apartment in Chico or Redding, CA-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Blog%20Images/How%20to%20Rent%20an%20Apartment%20in%20Chico%20or%20Redding%2c%20CA.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-to-rent-an-apartment) ### [How to Rent an Apartment in Chico or Redding, CA Click to view How to Rent an Apartment in Chico or Redding, CA](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-to-rent-an-apartment) [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-to-rent-an-apartment) [![What to Look for When Renting an Apartment: Your Apartment Comparison Checklist-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Blog%20Images/What%20to%20Look%20for%20When%20Renting%20an%20Apartment%20Your%20Apartment%20Comparison%20Checklist.png) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-look-for-when-renting-an-apartment-comparison-checklist) ### [What to Look for When Renting an Apartment: Your Apartment Comparison Checklist Click to view What to Look for When Renting an Apartment: Your Apartment Comparison Checklist](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-look-for-when-renting-an-apartment-comparison-checklist) Knowing what to look for when renting an apartment can make the difference between moving forward with... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-look-for-when-renting-an-apartment-comparison-checklist) [![Change of Address Checklist: Who to Notify When You Move-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Two%20people%20with%20boxes%20moving%20into%20a%20new%20home.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/change-of-address-checklist) ### [Change of Address Checklist: Who to Notify When You Move Click to view Change of Address Checklist: Who to Notify When You Move](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/change-of-address-checklist) Moving into a new home is exciting, but it also comes with a long to-do list. One of the most important yet... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/change-of-address-checklist) [![Apartment Etiquette: What To Do When Someone Parks in Your Spot-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Aerial%20view%20of%20parking%20spots%20in%20an%20apartment%20complex.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-do-when-someone-parks-in-your-spot-apartment) ### [Apartment Etiquette: What To Do When Someone Parks in Your Spot Click to view Apartment Etiquette: What To Do When Someone Parks in Your Spot](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-do-when-someone-parks-in-your-spot-apartment) Apartment parking shouldn’t be a daily source of stress. However, for many renters, it becomes one the moment... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-do-when-someone-parks-in-your-spot-apartment) [![Budgeting for Rent: How Much Rent Can You Afford in California?-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Piggy%20bank%20next%20to%20a%20wooden%20house%20and%20sign%20that%20says%20rent.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-a-simple-guide-to-budgeting-for-rent) ### [Budgeting for Rent: How Much Rent Can You Afford in California? Click to view Budgeting for Rent: How Much Rent Can You Afford in California?](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-a-simple-guide-to-budgeting-for-rent) Rent is one of the biggest monthly expenses for most people, so figuring out how much you can comfortably... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-a-simple-guide-to-budgeting-for-rent) [![How to Decorate the Outside of Your Apartment This Holiday-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/christmas%20decor%20on%20balcony_1202644327.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-to-decorate-the-outside-of-your-apartment-this-holiday) ### [How to Decorate the Outside of Your Apartment This Holiday Click to view How to Decorate the Outside of Your Apartment This Holiday](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-to-decorate-the-outside-of-your-apartment-this-holiday) Decking the halls isn't just for those with sprawling lawns and grand facades—apartment dwellers can spread... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/how-to-decorate-the-outside-of-your-apartment-this-holiday) [![8 Tips to Prepare Your Apartment Before Holiday Travels-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/leaving%20home_1555849247.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/prepare-your-apartment-before-holiday-travels) ### [8 Tips to Prepare Your Apartment Before Holiday Travels Click to view 8 Tips to Prepare Your Apartment Before Holiday Travels](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/prepare-your-apartment-before-holiday-travels) The holidays are here, and you’re probably gearing up for travel, whether it’s a cozy trip to visit family or... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/prepare-your-apartment-before-holiday-travels) [![Virtual Tours vs. In-Person Visits: Should You Apply Sight Unseen-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/virtual%20apartment%20tour%20shutterstock_2327180977_OPT.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/virtual-tours-vs-in-person-visits) ### [Virtual Tours vs. In-Person Visits: Should You Apply Sight Unseen Click to view Virtual Tours vs. In-Person Visits: Should You Apply Sight Unseen](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/virtual-tours-vs-in-person-visits) Searching for a new apartment is exciting, but it can be stressful, especially if you're unable to visit in... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/virtual-tours-vs-in-person-visits) [![North State: Fall 2024 Bucket List-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/book%20and%20mug%20in%20a%20fall%20setting-846775222.jpg) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/north-state-fall-2024-bucket-list) ### [North State: Fall 2024 Bucket List Click to view North State: Fall 2024 Bucket List](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/north-state-fall-2024-bucket-list) The first official day of Fall has come and gone, meaning if you haven't started transitioning to all things... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/north-state-fall-2024-bucket-list) [![Smooth Moves: Tips for Relocating to a New Apartment-featured-image](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/two%20senior%20adults%20moving%20boxes.png) ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/smooth-moves-tips-for-relocating-to-a-new-apartment) ### [Smooth Moves: Tips for Relocating to a New Apartment Click to view Smooth Moves: Tips for Relocating to a New Apartment](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/smooth-moves-tips-for-relocating-to-a-new-apartment) Moving to a new apartment can be both exciting and overwhelming. There are several things to consider,... [Learn More ** Click to view blog post ](https://blog.hignellrentals.com/smooth-moves-tips-for-relocating-to-a-new-apartment) ** Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of [website accessibility](https://userway.org) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Hignell Rentals Team", "url" : "https://blog.hignellrentals.com/author/hignell-rentals-team" }, "dateModified" : "2024-12-16T23:49:30.367Z", "datePublished" : "2017-04-11T04:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "What to Consider Before Signing a Rental Living Agreement", "image" : [ "https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Rental_Agreement.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.hignellrentals.com/what-to-consider-before-signing-a-rental-living-agreement", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.hignellrentals.com/hubfs/Hignell-Property-Management/Hignell-logo-2023.svg" } } } ```