Q: What lease terms should I look out for before signing?
Posted by u/LeaseLearnerNYC • 4 hours ago
I just got approved for an apartment in Astoria, and the leasing office sent over a 12-page lease agreement. It's overwhelming, and I don’t want to sign something that might come back to bite me later.
I know to check the rent and dates, but what other lease terms should I be reading carefully? Are there clauses that NYC renters commonly overlook but should absolutely pay attention to?
Top Answer by Estay
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson | 8 years experience
Here’s a rundown of the most important lease terms—and what they really mean:
📅 Lease Start & End Dates
Check that the move-in and move-out dates are correct. Some leases auto-renew if you don’t give notice—know the renewal terms before signing.
💸 Rent Payment Details
Is the rent due on the 1st? Is there a grace period? Are late fees flat or daily? Also verify if payments must be made online or by check.
🔁 Renewal & Rent Increases
Some landlords insert clauses that allow for automatic rent hikes on renewal. Ask if you’ll get written notice of any rent change and how much warning you’ll have.
🔧 Maintenance Responsibilities
Who handles minor repairs? Are you responsible for changing air filters or fixing clogged drains? The lease should clarify this.
🚪 Early Termination & Subletting
Life changes fast—know the consequences of breaking your lease early. Is subletting allowed? Are there penalties? Many NYC landlords forbid subleasing without approval.
🐶 Pet Policy
Even if the building is “pet-friendly,” your specific lease might ban pets or require pet deposits and fees. Make sure what’s in writing matches what you were told.
🏢 Access & Entry
Your landlord can’t enter your unit at will. The lease should specify how much notice they must give (typically 24 hours for non-emergencies).
⚖️ Legal Clauses & Riders
Look for any riders (add-on clauses) at the end. These often include building rules, smoking policies, or “as-is” clauses that waive your rights to request changes.
Professional Advice Summary
Read every page—even if it’s tedious. Highlight anything that feels vague or overly strict and ask for clarification. Don’t feel pressured to sign on the spot.
If you're unsure, ask the leasing agent or a real estate attorney. A few questions now can save you thousands later.
Happy to review a specific lease clause—just drop it below and I’ll translate the legal jargon!
Pro Tip: Pay attention to riders and early termination fees. They’re the most common pain points renters overlook.
Updated weekly • Based on verified NYC leases