Think you know everything there is to know about apartments? Well here are some common myths many people have about apartment living that may just surprise you.
Myth: Crime rates are much higher in apartments.
Truth: On the whole, apartments are actually generally safer. In recent studies it has actually been found that police services are needed around half as often in apartment complexes.
Myth: Because an apartment is affordable it must be cheaply built and poorly maintained.
Truth: This myth is not true at all. Apartment buildings are held to the same, if not stricter, building standards as everyone else. Just because an apartment is affordable doesn't mean they're going to short change you.
Myth: If my roommate cannot make rent, it is not my responsibility.
Truth: Look out on this one, in many cases if your roommate does not make rent you're both held responsible, which means you could be left with the full responsibility or the resulting bad credit. Make sure to check your lease and clarify this with your landlord.
Myth: If I don't make rent my landlord can lock me out of my apartment.
Truth: Nope! This one is false too. In order for your landlord to lock you out you either would have had to have been taken to court or be given the proper notice. A landlord does not have the right to completely cut you off without notice.
Myth: Apartments create major traffic problems for both the residents and the general public.
Truth: As it turns out, apartment residents are generally more likely to take public transportation and thus own fewer cars than the average homeowner.
Myth: My landlord can enter my apartment at his/her own will.
Truth: Landlords are required to give you a reasonable amount of notice before entering your apartment. Landlords are also not allowed to bully you: if a landlord is coming into your apartment excessively you need to speak up.
Myth: The landlord is required to pay for anything, large or small, that was originally in my apartment that breaks or gets worn down.
Truth: Read your lease. What the landlord is required to pay for should be outlined. Generally, landlords are not responsible for anything you may break or anything generally regarded as cosmetic, such as a scratched up floor or door. They are, however, responsible for general maintenance of the property.
One of the most important things you should get from this is that things that may seem obvious aren't necessarily true. When dealing with your apartment you should try your best to research as much as you can. In many cases it can clear up misunderstandings that would generally waste your time and money.