Looking to move into an apartment? Let BBB do the heavy lifting

BBB offers tips for finding an apartment and how to avoid getting scammed Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN TexasWhether youre a college student looking for a place to live after the summer break or a recent graduate all packed up and moving to a new city finding an apartment can sometimes be difficult in todays rental market. Add that to the stress of moving your belongings in the Texas August heat. Better Business Bureau serving Central Coastal Southwest Texas and the Permian Basin receives thousands of complaints against apartment complexes every year consistently placing the apartment industry on BBBs top 10 list of most complained about industries. In 2015 apartments came in the #2 spot. Last year BBB received over 9500 complaints against apartments nationwide. Your BBB received nearly 800 complaints. Most complaints alleged difficulties getting security deposits back issues with the condition of the apartment or allegations that repairs were not handled in a timely manner. When browsing for an apartment in classifieds its important to be aware that some ads may not be legitimate. Scammers regularly advertise rentals in print and online that dont exist or arent available. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) they clone actual rental listings and then change the contact and email information placing the altered ads in numerous newspapers or websites to trick as many people as they can out of money or personal information. If a potential landlord asks for a wire transfer or large lump sum before viewing the property thats a red flag. Also beware of rental listings that are advertised far below market valuethis could be a sign of a fake listing. Remember if it sounds too good to be true it probably is. Before you sign an apartment lease BBB recommends renters:

• Do your research. When searching online for apartment listings there are several legitimate websites that show listings throughout the area youre searching. You can even narrow results to exactly what youre looking for. If you find an apartment complex that interests you be sure to visit the apartments website and write down any contact information.
• Check out the apartment. Go to bbb.org to see the BBB Business Profile of the apartment company you are considering. You can view a companys BBB rating how they handle complaints as well as complaint details and contact information.
• Visit the complex. Tour the facility and the specific unit for rent to be sure the community and living space will meet your needs. Websites often use pictures taken only from the best locations on the property or of promotional units.
• Document the condition of your apartment. Upon move-in make sure to note each and every flaw or defect in your apartment so that you are not held responsible for damages later. Its advisable to also take photos of your unit prior to move-in so that you have documentation available in case a dispute arises upon move-out.
• Keep a signed copy of the lease. Store it in a safe place in case you need to refer back to it.
• Consider renters insurance. Many apartment communities require tenants have a minimum amount of renters insurance before move in. If its not required its still an option tenants should consider. Renters insurance would cover your losses in the event of fire burglary or other damage. Pay attention to deductibles and coverage limits when choosing a policy.
• Read your lease thoroughly. Before signing any lease make sure you read the terms and conditions. Review the lease for the following information:
  • Maintenance: Find out how all repair concerns are handled and within what time frame.
  • Deposits: Know what your security deposit covers and the conditions for deductions.
  • Increases: Ask if your rent or other fees will be increased during your lease term.
  • Subletting: See whether or not you are allowed to sublet your unit in an emergency.
  • Rent: Get a schedule of when monthly payments are due and where you should make payment.
  • Move out: See what specific move out instructions are required of the renter. These may include hiring a specific cleaning company or having the carpets professionally cleaned. Be sure you understand these requirements and are willing to comply.
  • Coverage: Ask if insurance is required and what is covered.

For the latest news and information follow us on watchyourbuck.com Facebook and Twitter. To check out a company and find trustworthy businesses visit bbb.org. Find other news story topics by visiting our Press Release News Center. ABOUT BBB®: For more than 100 years Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses brands and charities they can trust. In 2015 people turned to BBB more than 172 million times for BBB Business Reviews on more than 5.3 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11000 charities all available for free at bbb.org. There are local independent BBBs across the United States Canada and Mexico including BBB serving Central Coastal Southwest Texas and the Permian Basin which serves 97 counties in Texas.