The apartment may look great, and the location might feel perfect. But before signing a lease, it’s important to ask the right questions. A few simple questions upfront can help you avoid unexpected expenses, building issues, or lease surprises later.
1. Money Questions
"How is rent paid?"
Ask whether rent is paid by check, an online portal, bank transfer, or another method.
"What is the total move-in cost?"
Confirm the exact amount due at signing. In Boston this often includes first month’s rent, last month’s rent, a security deposit, and sometimes a broker fee.
"What utilities are included?"
Ask whether heat, hot water, electricity, water, or internet are included in the rent.
"What do utilities usually cost here?"
Older Boston buildings can be expensive to heat. Ask about typical winter heating bills.
"Is there a broker fee?"
If so, confirm the amount. In Boston it is often equal to one month’s rent.
"Is parking available? How much does it cost?"
Parking is rarely included. Private spaces often cost about $150 to $400 per month, depending on the neighborhood.
2. Heat & Winter Questions
"How old are the windows?"
Older single-pane windows can be drafty and expensive to heat. Ask if the unit has storm windows or newer double-pane replacements.
"What type of heating system is used?"
Find out whether the building uses gas, oil, or electric heat, and whether it’s radiators, baseboard, or forced air.
"Is heat included in the rent?"
If not, ask what tenants typically pay during winter months.
"When was the heating system last serviced?"
Heating systems should be serviced regularly. If maintenance hasn’t been done recently, that can be a warning sign.
"Do I control my own heat?"
Ask whether the unit has its own thermostat or if heat is controlled building-wide.
3. Building & Maintenance Questions
"How does trash and recycling work?"
Ask where trash is stored, when pickup days are, and whether tenants need to move bins to the curb. Some Boston buildings require tenants to handle this themselves.
"Who do I contact for repairs?"
Find out whether you contact the landlord directly, a property manager, or a maintenance company.
"How quickly are repairs usually handled?"
Ask about typical response times for maintenance requests.
"Is there emergency maintenance?"
This is especially important in winter if heat or hot water stops working.
"Who handles snow removal?"
Ask whether the landlord clears sidewalks and entrances, or if tenants are responsible.
"Have there been recent renovations or planned repairs?"
Recent upgrades can be a good sign. Planned construction may affect noise, access, or living conditions.
4. Pest Questions
"Who is responsible for pest control?"
Ask whether the landlord or property manager handles pest treatment and covers the cost.
"Has the building had any pest issues?"
Be direct. Ask about mice, roaches, or bedbugs and how they were handled.
"Is there regular pest control service?"
Some buildings schedule routine pest control visits. Preventive service is usually a good sign.
5. Lease Questions
"What are the rules about guests?"
Ask whether there are limits on overnight guests or long-term stays.
"What is the lease term?"
Many Boston leases run September 1 to August 31, but other terms are possible.
"Is subletting allowed?"
This can be important if your plans change or you may need to leave early.
"What happens when the lease ends?"
Ask whether the lease renews automatically, converts to month-to-month, or requires signing a new lease.
"Is there an early termination option?"
Find out what happens if you need to break the lease and whether there are fees or conditions.
6. Amenities & Features
"Is there laundry in the building?"
If not, ask where the nearest laundromat is.
"Is there storage available?"
Some buildings offer basement storage, bike storage, or additional closets.
"Is the building pet-friendly?"
Ask about size or breed restrictions and whether there are additional deposits or monthly pet fees.
"Is there air conditioning?"
Check whether the unit has built-in A/C or if window units are allowed.
"What appliances are included?"
Confirm what comes with the apartment, such as a dishwasher, garbage disposal, or microwave.
"Is there any outdoor space?"
Ask if the building has a shared yard, roof deck, balcony, or porch.
7. Neighbors & Building Questions
"How many units are in the building?"
Smaller buildings often feel quieter, while larger ones may have more turnover.
"Who typically lives here?"
Ask whether the building is mostly students, families, or working professionals.
"Are there noise issues?"
Older Boston buildings sometimes have thin walls or noisy floors.
"What is the parking situation?"
Is there street parking, and does the neighborhood require a resident permit?
8. Red Flag Questions
"Why is the previous tenant leaving?"
A neutral answer is normal. Vague or defensive responses can be a warning sign.
"How long has the unit been vacant?"
If it has been empty for a long time in a competitive market, there may be underlying issues.
"Can I see the exact unit I would be renting?"
Make sure you are touring the actual apartment, not just a “similar unit.”
"Can I speak with a current tenant?"
Sometimes landlords will allow this. Current tenants can provide honest insight about the building.
"Has the building had any recent code violations?"
You can also check Boston’s public inspection records to see past complaints or violations.