3. Remember that a contract is a legally binding document.

Depending on state your renting in, lease can cover everything from what you pay to who's responsible for yard work. Regardless of what lease states, if you sign it, you must abide by it. If you break lease without your landlord's approval, you could end up losing everything from your security deposit to your credit.

The only exception to this rule is if you, your roommate(s) and your landlord agree to add an amendment. This amendment can nullify or add to original agreements made in original lease. The amendment must be signed and dated by all parties involved in lease.

4. Don't be afraid to talk to your landlord.

If you're worried about making a payment, or you don't think you're going to be able to fulfill lease term, talk to your landlord before you do anything. Maybe you'll be able to work out some sort of agreement. While landlords don't have to make any exceptions for you, they'll be much more likely to help you out if you approach them before there's a problem rather than after you've missed a payment, etc.

Whether you're renting for three months or three years; these rules apply to anyone wanting to be a responsible renter.

dan the roommate man

Landlord or Contact Name: __________________________

phone # _____________________

Landlord Address: _______________________________________

Monthly Rental Amt.:______________

Resided on premises from _________to_____________

Employment Information:

Employer/Company Name

_______________________________________

Address _______________________________________

Supervisor's Name___________________________________

phone #_____________________

Position_____________________Salary $________

Start Date/Length of employment________

Employment Information for Co-Applicant:

Employer/Company Name _______________________________________

Address _______________________________________

Supervisor's Name___________________________________

phone #_____________________

Position_____________________Salary $________

Start Date/Length of employment________

I understand that I/we will be turned down if I/we falsify any information on this application. I/we authorize verification of all above information by ______________________ to include credit, rental, employment and criminal background.

Applicant's signature

__________________________

Date_____________________

Co-Applicant __________________________

__

DO I NEED A RENTAL APPLICATION FILLED OUT? YES

Remember person who answers your ad is a total stranger and you need to get to know him or her as quickly as possible. Have your potential renter fill out and sign a rental application. Along with application get a copy of a photo ID.

dan the roommate man