WHEN CHOOSING A RENTAL FACILITY, WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS ?

A. COST
Make a realistic budget and stay within it as you search. Rents tend to depend on:

• size of apartment
• condition of the apartment
• location relative to campus,
• which utilities are included
  
  Remember to include all utilities in your budget if they are not included in the rent.

B. PARKING AVAILABILITY
There is a six-hour parking ban in Providence between 1:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Hence, provisions should be made for obtaining a parking space. If parking is available from the landlord, it must be written into the lease.

C. CHOOSING ROOMMATES/HOUSEMATES    
Your choice of housemates is very important in determining whether or not your living situation will be a comfortable and relaxing one. Discuss lifestyles, habits, and expectations thoroughly before deciding to form a household. Clearly define what responsibilities will be incurred if one party decides to move out before the term of the lease is up. Most important, be honest about what you can and cannot live with in terms of cleaning, cooking, noise, guests, etc.

D. OTHER QUESTIONS
The following checklist may help you to determine whether or not a particular apartment is acceptable to you. Note the condition of each area and any necessary repairs.
Interior Space
Living room?
Bathroom with tub? Shower?
Number of bedrooms?
Kitchen with stove? Refrigerator?
Work or study space?
Storage space?

Exterior Condition
Parking?
Yard or porch?
Screens and Storm Windows?
Sidewalks and steps in good repair?
Who is responsible for snow removal ?

Construction
Walls, ceilings, and floors in sound condition?Windows and doors open and close easily?Insulation?

Plumbing
Leaking faucets?
Sinks, tub, shower drain properly?
Toilets flush properly?
Adequate water pressure?

Heating Costs
Storm windows?
Age of heating system?
Cost per year?

Health
Heat in each room?
Consistent provision of hot and cold water?
Pests kept under control?
Regular garbage collection?
No peeling paint or plaster?
Adequate ventilation?

Safety
At least two exits?
Fire escapes in good repair?
Wiring: modem, adequate?
Stairways and halls clear, well-lit?
Concealed pipes?
Appliances in good working order?
Smoke detectors?

Security
Sufficient locks on outside doors and windows?
Deadbolt lock on apartment or house door?