The Apartment
Who is the landlord?
The person or company that owns the apartment.
True or False- In tiny apartments, the best way to store more is have taller organization cabinets.
True! Think height instead of width with storage to save space.
Name 2 things you should always do when leaving your apartment.
Shut off lights, lock the door, close windows, blow out candles, etc.
What are utilities, and what are 2 examples of them?
Utilities are the extra services at an apartment that we need to pay for. Ex. gas, electric, internet, cable, garbage, water, etc.
What are 2 things you should do to avoid getting critters in the winter?
Take out garbage every night, patch up holes and drafts, do dishes every night, etc.
Who is the tenant?
The person who is renting the apartment. AKA you in the future!
Is cleaning and organizing related to mental health?
Yes! If you are clean and organized, your mental health is more likely to be better.
True or false- if you feel unsafe around your apartment at night, you can ask your landlord to install more lights in the driveway or surrounding area to help with this.
True! If it's in regards to your safety, your landlord should install these.
What are amenities, and give at least 2 examples of them?
Amenities are features or extras at an apartment. Ex. dishwasher, laundry in unit, pool, clubhouse, grilling area, parking area, etc.
About how much can having a roommate save you in rent? (in percentage)
30-50%
What is the lease?
The lease is the contract you sign that outlines all of the terms and conditions of living in an apartment.
DOUBLE JEOPARDY
True or false- cleaning liquids can be mixed if the bottles are labeled as organic.
False. Regardless of organic or not, never mix cleaning liquids.
True or false- all apartments will come with a fire extinguisher.
False! You can ask your landlord to provide one if not, or you can buy one on your own.
True or false: All utilities are included in your lease.
False- some leases include utilities, some do not.
DOUBLE JEOPARDY
Name 2 websites that are helpful to find apartments on.
True or false: Your lease will outline roommate responsibilities.
False! It is up to you and your roommate to create a contract on this.
Can the cleanliness of your apartment get you in trouble with your landlord at all?
Yes. If your landlord enters your apartment or sees the surrounding area is a mess, you can be fined.
How often should smoke detectors be checked?
At least every 6 months
False! For some people, things like a dishwasher or elevator may be a necessity.
Give a range of the average rent in Albany, NY at this time.
$1,200 to $1,500
What is the typical length of a lease?
12 to 15 months
True or False: If your roommate is not cleaning and organizing enough, your parent can split up their chores for them.
FALSE! Your roommate does NOT have to listen to YOUR parents.
List 3 items you should have in an emergency kit in the winter.
Flashlight, bandages, batteries, water, blanket, etc.
DOUBLE JEOPARDY
What are the 2 main internet companies/providers in the Albany area?
Spectrum and Verizon
What are 2 ways that are typically allowed to pay rent?
By check, online, money order.