Apt. Checklist

This post is more for my future reference. I've learned a little bit about apartment hunting this year. I signed a lease last year that I wish I wouldn't have. At the time, the apts. I was looking at seemed like they were getting snatched up quick so when I came across the last apartment on my list that I was willing to settle for and it was available, I signed the lease. The first day in my new apt. I found out how thin the walls were. I could hear the beep of my new neighbor's microwave. Awesome! These interior walls we share are not insulated.

To keep myself and hopefully you from falling into this trap I will make a list of simple things to look for that should give you pause before signing that lease. 

Things to avoid. 

1. Sinks without garbage disposal. 

2. Window AC units. (They tend to produce mold)

3. Incorrectly wired outlets. (carry a GFI tester with you)

4. Knock on interior walls if you share them with neighbors. Do the walls sound hollow when compared with perimeter walls?

5. Check the circuit breaker. Does it still use fuses?

6. If there is an attic space, take a look at the insulation.

7. Does the stove range and bathroom have proper ventilation fans?

8. Keep an eye out for roach turds. 

9. Does the parking lot flood when it rains? Knock on a nearby door and ask your future neighbor when the estate agent is not around. 

10. Can you see daylight around the entry door when it is closed?

11. What do the neighbors think of the maintenance crew?

12. Does the place have a dishwasher?

 These are just the glaring problems I have with my current apartment. This apt. is at the corner of Villere and Wilkinson in Mandeville LA. 

I will not miss this simple, run down, moldy box when I leave Saturday. Fuck you Mandeville. 

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