If you rent a place to live, look for specifics in the lease

Associated Press

When it comes to disputes between tenants and landlords, the most common — and contentious — are generally over refunding a security deposit or making repairs, said Janet Portman, co-author of the Nolo publishing house's "Every Tenant's Legal Guide."

Another problem area can be privacy — just when can the landlord enter an apartment?

Consumers trying to avoid these and other problems should make sure they get a lease that spells out what is required of the landlord and the tenant, Portman said.

What renters should think about or do:

• Lease agreement. Carefully review a rental agreement or lease before you sign it. It may contain provisions you find unacceptable, such as restrictions on guests or pets.

• Repairs. To avoid misunderstandings about promised repairs or amenities, get it all in writing.

• Privacy, safety. Be vigilant about your rights to privacy and a safe unit.

• Disputes. Try to keep communication open with the landlord to get issues resolved in an amicable manner.

• Security deposit. Make sure the refund procedures are spelled out in the lease.

• Insurance. Invest in renter's insurance. While the landlord's policy will cover losses to the building, it won't cover the renter's furniture, clothes or other belongings lost in a fire or to theft.