 moving-in costs can include:  ■ Rent for first month  ■ Rent for last month  ■ Security deposit  ■ Utilities deposit  ■ Telephone deposit

 moving costs can include:  ■ Renting a truck  ■ Hiring movers  ■ Others?

 rule of thumb:  ■ You should spend no more than 32% of your gross income on rent or mortgage payments.

 What is a lease? A lease is a written agreement between the landlord and the tenant.  In New Brunswick, both the landlord and the tenant must sign two copies of the Residential Lease. Residential Lease  The landlord and tenant should each keep one of the signed originals.

 Your landlord might ask you for a security deposit, which can be no more than a full rent payment.  (So, if rent is $500 every month, the most you'll have to pay for a security deposit is $500.)

 Paying for any damage to the walls, floors, and furniture.  Not making alterations that the landlord must fix later.  Giving landlord a new set of keys if you change the locks.  Paying all of rent if roommates move out and you stay.  Landlord cannot enter premises without the tenant’s consent, or unless an emergency exists.

 Giving notice if leaving at the end of the lease.  Giving notice if leaving before lease is up and paying rent for balance of lease if landlord can’t find new tenants.

 landlord’s rights:  Charging extra if rent is late (amount specified in lease agreement).  Keeping part or all of the security deposit if you leave before the lease is up (as specified in the lease).

 Charging rent through the length of the lease even if you aren’t living on the premises.  Keeping all or part of security deposit if you damage walls, floors or fixtures, or if you make alterations that have to be fixed after you move out.

 Making repairs in a reasonable amount of time.  Keeping premises safe and sanitary.  Entering premises only at agreed-upon time to make repairs(unless there is an emergency), or to show the apartment to potential renters if you are moving out.  Collecting rent.  Maintaining exterior grounds of building.

 Ask around. See what others think of your potential landlord.  Trust your roomies. You should each sign the lease, so be sure you can count on each other.  Slow down. Keep your money in your pocket until you've inspected the place and signed the lease.  Put it in writing. Protect yourself by having your lease, inspection report and any other issues documented in writing.  Get it fixed. As soon as you notice an issue, let your landlord know right away. And put it in writing!  Pay up on time. Happy landlords get paid on time. If you are late, the landlord can begin the process to evict you.  Don't forget the notice period. You must give advance written notice to move out. Check your lease if you can't remember how much.  Pack it up. Take all your belongings with you when you leave.  Questions? Contact the Office of the Rentalsman.Office of the Rentalsman

 Complete the lease agreement and rental agreement

 assignment