lease rules

If a lease includes rules, they are usually incorporated as part of the lease. That means following those rules is just as important as paying rent. Be sure you are comfortable following the rules before signing the lease.
Being respectful of the property and your neighbors will satisfy most of the lease rules. Here are a few that can be a little tricky:
  • Guests. Landlords are generally not allowed to restrict your right to invite friends and guests to your apartment. However, they can put reasonable limits on overnight guests so that you can't add a tenant without paying for him, and the number of guests you can have at any one time is already limited by fire and building code regulations.
  • Party Registration.  Some leases require that tenants register parties in advance. Many leases are vague on what constitutes a party. If the lease does not specify the number of guests that equate to a party, be sure to ask.
  • Cold weather. We live in an area where cold weather can be a real threat to the integrity of a building's water system. Landlords often include rules designed to prevent damage. These rules may include restrictions against opening windows at certain times, or requirements to maintain heat at a minimum level. Watch for provisions that are impossible for you to perform, such as providing daily inspections over winter break.
  • Borough points violations. Leases tend to contain very strict provisions regarding violations that result in nuisance points for the property such as noise or trash violations. Landlords are particularly concerned about these violations because the points issued by the Borough attach to the property, putting the landlord's rental permit at risk. Check the lease to see how these are handled. If the landlord charges a fee for excessive noise, a single noise violation could easily cost you more than $1,000.00! (citation fine + landlord fine +court costs and fees)
  • Pets. Because of the potential for property damage, landlords often levy significant fines for violations of no pet clauses. 'No pets' means no animal can even cross the threshold, even if it is not your pet. Some no pet apartments allow small aquariums. If the lease is not clear, be sure to ask before moving your goldfish into your pad.
  • More rules. A rules section will often include a provision that allows the landlord to add more rules throughout the term of the lease. Landlords typically use this provision to address unexpected problems that occur during the year. They can't apply a new rule without giving tenants notice of the new rule first. Before signing such a lease, decide whether you are comfortable granting a landlord the unrestricted right to impose new rules.
Every situation is different. This website is meant to give you only general information, not specific legal advice.
For legal advice, consult an attorney.