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. 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 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!