Lease Terms

• How Is Electricity Usage Measured and Billed in Rental Apartments?

  Learn how electricity usage is measured and billed in apartments. Understand the role of meters, RUBS, lease terms, and what tenants need to know about electric costs.

• How Is Water Usage Measured and Billed in Rental Apartments?

  Learn how water usage is measured and billed in apartments. Understand the difference between flat-rate, RUBS, and submetered systems, and what tenants are responsible for.

• Is a Landlord Obligated to Compensate Tenants for Losses During Natural Disasters?

  Are landlords required to compensate tenants after a natural disaster? Learn what damage landlords must cover, when tenants are responsible, and how state laws vary.

• Can You Rent an Apartment Without Documents?

  Renting an apartment typically requires documentation — but what happens if you don’t have standard paperwork like a Social Security Number, ID, proof of income, or credit history? Whether you're a recent immigrant, an international student, or simply in a transitional situation, the question arises: Can you still rent without documents? The answer is: it’s difficult, but not impossible.

• Can a Renter Choose Their Own Insurance Company?

  Can renters choose their own insurance company when leasing an apartment? Find out your rights, what's typically allowed, and how to meet lease requirements.