This page collects the renter questions we field most often, organized by topic. Each answer is short, sourced where applicable, and written for renters — not landlords or property managers.
If you have a question we haven't answered, email editorial@therentreport.com and we'll add it.
Have a question?
Email editorial@therentreport.com and we'll consider it for the next FAQ update. We review reader submissions quarterly.
How it works
Answers reflect general US rental law and common industry practice. Your state may have stronger tenant protections — particularly California, New York, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington. Local rent control or just-cause eviction rules override defaults.
We update FAQs quarterly based on questions submitted by readers and patterns in the verified reviews moderation queue.
Frequently asked questions
- How much should a security deposit be?
- Most states cap residential security deposits at 1–2 months' rent. California is now capped at 1 month for most landlords. New York caps deposits at 1 month statewide.
- Are application fees refundable?
- Usually not. Application fees cover credit and background checks. Some states (Washington, Wisconsin) require refunds if the screening report isn't actually pulled.
- Who pays the broker fee in NYC?
- As of June 2025, the FARE Act requires the party that hires the broker to pay the fee — which is usually the landlord, not the tenant. Tenants should not be billed broker fees on listings posted by landlords or their agents.
- Is renters insurance required?
- Many landlords now require it in the lease. Even when not required, a $100k liability + personal property policy typically costs $12–$25/month and covers theft, fire, water damage, and guest injury.
- Can a landlord enter without notice?
- No, except for emergencies. Most states require 24 hours' written notice for non-emergency entry (repairs, showings, inspections). California requires 24 hours; New York requires 'reasonable' notice.
- What's the difference between a co-signer and a guarantor?
- Functionally similar — both promise to pay rent if you default. Co-signers are usually named on the lease itself; guarantors sign a separate guaranty document. Guarantor services (Insurent, TheGuarantors) charge 70–110% of one month's rent.
- How do I dispute a security deposit deduction?
- Send a written demand letter within the statutory timeframe (usually 30 days). If the landlord doesn't respond, small claims court is the standard remedy — filing fees are typically $30–$75 and you can represent yourself.
- Can my landlord raise rent mid-lease?
- No. Rent is fixed for the lease term unless the lease itself contains an escalation clause. At renewal, increases are allowed unless your city has rent stabilization (NYC, LA, parts of NJ, parts of Oregon and California statewide caps).
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