Renting your next home can feel thrilling and overwhelming at the same time. Beautiful photos in a listing don’t always reflect reality, and I’ve seen renters, after move-in, discover deal-breaking issues they could have avoided by asking the right questions during an in-person tour.
On that note, traditional in-person tours remain incredibly valuable.
A recent national renter survey indicates that more than half of renters say taking a private tour is essential when deciding which home to rent, as it helps them understand the space and the feel of a neighborhood more clearly.
In my experience helping renters evaluate properties and prepare for lease decisions, the right questions uncover hidden costs, safety concerns, lease surprises, and quality-of-life issues that listings often omit. In addition, I’ve seen renters avoid costly mistakes, and others move into homes they truly feel confident about, simply because they know what to ask during their in-person tour.
18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions That Reveal the Truth about a Property
Below are 18 must-ask questions every renter should ask during a tour.
1. What’s included in the monthly rent? (utilities, parking, amenities)
This question saves you from sticker shock later. Rent might look affordable until you learn that water, trash, internet, and parking aren’t included. Always clarify what’s part of the base price.
I’ve heard horror stories from potential renters who had previously committed to a lease only to discover $150–$300 in monthly utility, parking, and other costs that weren’t disclosed upfront. A situation that could have been prevented by asking this one question. You can always refer to ”The White House Blueprint For A Renters Bill of Rights” when needed.
2. How old are all the appliances?
The age of your appliances is important. Older refrigerators, stoves, or HVAC systems are more likely to fail, potentially leaving you without heat, hot water, or a working stove for any given amount of time.
3. Are there any ongoing maintenance issues in this unit or building?
A landlord will likely never volunteer this, but they should disclose known issues when asked. Therefore, I advise asking this directly. You definitely want to know if you’re walking into a problem unit or building.
One of the properties I took over had an entire section of buildings with almost no hot water (ever) due to their location at the “end of the loop.” That type of issue is one you typically won’t discover until you’ve moved in.
4. What’s the average monthly utility cost for previous residents?
Renters usually underestimate utilities. A landlord can sometimes tell you what others have paid for their electricity, water, and gas. Knowing this will help you budget more accurately.
5. How is the noise in the building and the surrounding area?
Noise is one of the biggest complaints renters have after moving in. Ask whether there are quiet hours, and, if possible, check the unit during a busier time of day or in the evening on your own.
Noise isn’t always people-related. The property might be under a flight path, have a nearby train, or experience excessive street noise. Therefore, spending time visiting the property before signing a lease could help you avoid significant noise and quality-of-life issues. Take it from someone who has lived under the flight path of a nearby airport.
6. What security features does the property have? (locks, cameras, access control)
Safety isn’t just a comfort issue; it’s peace of mind. Ask about secure entries, lighting in the common areas, cameras, deadbolts, and how guests enter the buildings.
In addition, if you ask the leasing agent whether the property is “safe,” they are not permitted to answer, as it would create liability for the owner and management company. This is because no one can guarantee your safety. Therefore, if you ask that question, the leasing agent will recommend you contact the police department for an area crime report.
7. When was the last time the property had major repairs or upgrades?
Knowing whether the roof, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems were updated recently helps you estimate the level of maintenance (and inconvenience) you can expect. Old infrastructure and deferred maintenance often lead to frequent problems.
8. Are there any pest control issues?
Pest problems are a common regret if overlooked. Ask about past issues and how frequently pest control is performed. Also, take a moment to look in the drawers, cabinets, and other out-of-sight areas of the apartment for visible signs of a pest problem.
9. How often is routine (preventive) maintenance performed?
Well-maintained buildings usually have a maintenance schedule and quick response times. Poor maintenance often shows up as neglected common areas, broken lights, and recurring maintenance issues.
10. What is the lease renewal process like?
Some properties automatically renew leases with a rent increase unless you provide a written notice to vacate. Others may offer flexible extensions or higher monthly fees if you opt to stay month-to-month rather than renew.
11. Are there any scheduled rent increases coming up? If so, when?
Scheduled rent increases are generally not divulged to prospective renters (unless they moved in at a special rate). Asking directly prepares you for future increases and helps with budgeting.
12. What’s the policy for maintenance requests, and what are the response times?
Maintenance policies vary widely. I’ve seen landlords take weeks to address small repairs, while others respond within 24 hours. Having this information can help you manage your expectations and set realistic standards. It will also give you an opportunity to decide if that timeframe is acceptable to you (or not).
13. Is renter’s insurance required?
Some landlords require it; others strongly recommend it. Even when it’s optional, I advise renters to carry it. It will protect your belongings and liability.
At one of my properties, a young girl was left at home alone for just a few hours after school. That was enough time for her to decide to play with matches and almost burn down the building. Insurance is for events beyond your control.
14. Is parking included, and is it guaranteed?
Parking can be a surprising extra cost or a daily hassle if it’s limited or unassigned. Parking frustration is a very common issue for many properties. Also, don’t forget to ask whether they charge for entry gate remotes, etc., and, if so, whether it's a one-time fee or a monthly charge.
15. What amenities are on-site, and are there fees for them?
Fitness centers, pools, business centers, and rooftop lounges can be great perks. But they sometimes come with extra monthly fees. Confirm the details before assuming they’re “free.”
16. What’s the neighborhood like at night?
Ask about the lighting, noise from nearby establishments, traffic, or transit. Your comfort after sunset is just as important as it is during the day.
17. How close are essential services? (grocery, daycare, gas, transit)
Proximity to daily needs significantly affects your quality of life. Always check the distances to things you need before signing a lease.
18. Why did the previous resident move out?
You might not get an answer to this, but it’s worth asking. This is golden information if divulged. Sometimes you have to read between the lines. It might indicate ongoing rent increases, noise, safety concerns, or maintenance frustrations without directly asking a negative question.
Take Control of Your Next Rental by Touring Smarter
Touring a rental doesn’t have to be stressful. When you ask the right questions, you walk away empowered, not guessing.
Ready to tour with confidence? Start by saving this list, tailor it to what is most important to you, and don’t be afraid to ask all the questions you need to feel absolutely certain about your next home.
18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions Cheat Sheet
Keep this cheat sheet handy while touring your next rental home.
□ What’s included in the monthly rent? (utilities, parking, amenities)
□ How old are the appliances?
□ Are there any ongoing maintenance issues in this unit or building?
□ What’s the average monthly utility cost for past residents?
□ How is the noise in the building and the surrounding area?
□ What security features does the property have? (locks, cameras, access control)
□ When was the last time the property had major repairs or upgrades?
□ Are there any pest control issues?
□ How often is routine maintenance performed?
□ What is the lease renewal process like?
□ Are there any rent increases expected soon?
□ What’s the policy for maintenance requests and response times?
□ Is renter’s insurance required?
□ Is parking included, and is it guaranteed?
□ What amenities are on-site, and are there fees for them?
□ What’s the neighborhood like at night?
□ How close are essential services? (grocery, daycare, gas, transit)
□ Why did the previous tenant move out?
This guide is based on real rental tour experiences and common issues reported by renters after move-in. The goal is to help prospective residents ask better questions, avoid preventable surprises, and choose housing with confidence.
Disclaimer: I am not an attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance on matters specific to your situation.
