Spot Illegal Lease Add-Ons and Hidden Fees

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Compare each fee to state law before signing the lease for legality.
• Request a written list of non-refundable fees to identify disguised deposits.
• Check for admin or processing fees higher than market rates.
• Identify service charges like pest control and verify rent already covers them by law.
• Scrutinize vague clauses such as ‘other charges’; demand clear written definitions.
• Look for unauthorized pet fees if you have no pet.
• Ensure move-in/move-out fees are itemized and not already included in deposits.
• Verify application fees are capped at your jurisdiction’s legal limit.
• Check for illegal late fees above state maximums or with daily penalties.
• Review utility clauses to confirm you’re not paying for landlord/building-wide usage.
• Confirm renters insurance requirement doesn’t restrict your provider options.
• Question fees for amenities you cannot access, such as parking or storage.