To Rent or Not To Rent: 5 Red Flags First-Time Renters Should Look Out For

Most of us have a few life stories to tell where things were not always as they seemed. The school of hard knocks taught us lessons that we could have learned without the pain of poor decision-making. And yet, that is life. And as it is in life, so it is in property.

If you are looking to rent property for the first time, it is important to be vigilant when conducting your search. Doing so will help you spot common red flags and avoid potential issues connected to signing a bad lease. 

In addition to being aware of these warning signs, be sure to also research the neighbourhood, spend time browsing online reviews, chat to previous tenants if possible, and, of course, review the lease agreement with a fine-tooth comb before signing. 

5 Common Red Flags First-Time Renters Should Be Aware Of

1. Unusually low rental

If the rent for a property seems significantly lower than similar listings in the same area, it could be a red flag. Low rent may hint to hidden problems with the property, such as maintenance issues, safety concerns, or a deceptive landlord. Be sure to always research comparable rental prices in the area you're browsing in to get a good sense of what is reasonable.

2. No written lease agreement in place

This is a big one. A written lease agreement is a critical document that outlines all the terms and conditions of the rental agreement between the landlord and the tenant, and protects the rights of both parties. It includes terms regarding monthly rent, the security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, additional clauses, and other important information. If a landlord is unwilling to provide a written lease or asks for cash payments without documentation, it's a potential red flag. 

3. Poor maintenance 

This red flag should ideally be spotted during an initial property viewing. Make the most of the opportunity to pay close attention to the overall condition and cleanliness of the rental unit. If you notice signs of damage or neglect, such as leaking pipes, broken appliances, or a dirty and unkempt property, it could mean that the landlord is negligent and may not address future maintenance issues timeously. In these instances, be sure to request that any necessary repairs be made before you sign the lease.

4. Unresponsive landlord / property manager

The key to an amicable tenant / landlord relationship is communication. Being able to effectively communicate with the landlord or property manager is crucial throughout your tenancy. If the landlord is unresponsive to your inquiries, vague about any lease terms, or difficult to reach in general, take it as a red flag. This may become a problem when you have maintenance requests or other concerns in the future. Before you commit, make sure you have a reliable, responsive point of contact.

5. Suspicious background checks or application fees

Lastly, be cautious of landlords or property management companies that charge exorbitant application fees or run background checks without clear explanations or transparency. As the potential tenant, you are entitled to fair application charges and reasonable application procedures. At the same time, make sure that you understand the criteria used for tenant screening to avoid potential discrimination.

Ready To Start Your Search For The Perfect Rental? Get In Touch!

Finding the right property is so much easier when you have the right people in your corner who can spot red flags that a first-time renter may overlook. With years of expertise in the South African rental market and a deep understanding of both landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities, our agents are ready to help you navigate your first rental property search. Get in touch with us today and let's find you your dream rental.