Online leasing has become the standard in apartment renting, so much so that it’s considered a trend. It sounds great to be able to lease a new apartment without having to leave home, but it also brings up a few questions. Let’s explore common questions about online leases.
In this article:
Is signing an online lease legally binding?
How do I sign an online lease?
What is an electronic signature?
Can I still ask questions and negotiate?
What should I look for before signing the lease?
Where does my lease get stored?
Is signing an online lease legally binding?
Yes! It is just as binding as if you physically went into the leasing office and signed the lease in person. This is because of the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN Act) of 2000, which states that “a signature, contract, or other record relating to such transaction may not be denied legal effect, validity, or enforceability solely because it is in electronic form.” Which is a fancy way of saying a signature is still a signature. Or as Shakespeare would put it, a rose by any other name is the same thing as a digital rose. (Close enough.)
How do I sign an online lease?
You may be asked to provide an electronic or digital signature when you sign an online lease. While often used interchangeably, these terms have slight differences.
What is an electronic signature?
An electronic signature, or e-signature, is similar to your traditional ink signature. It’s just applied electronically without having to physically sign or scan anything. E-signatures allow you to add your initials to places within the document if you need to verify information or make changes. This is a fast, easy way to sign documents online.
What is a digital signature?
A digital signature is a type of electronic signature that uses a mathematical algorithm to identify you. This is often used in highly regulated, secured instances. Digital signatures are used “to detect unauthorized modifications to data and to authenticate the identity of the signatory,” according to the US Department of Commerce.
Is online leasing safe?
Yes, online leasing is safe, as long as you are dealing with a reputable source. Many apartment communities use a secured system that will encrypt your information. Property management companies typically provide standard leases that are fully compliant with state laws, so you can be sure that your lease is both accurate and secure.
This is also the case if you are signing a lease generated through Apartments.com. The process is secured and encrypted, and the lease forms are reviewed by experts to ensure they follow the rental property’s state laws.
Can I still ask questions and negotiate?
Of course! If you have questions about your lease, either call or email the property manager and ask. Take your time and read the lease carefully. You have the luxury of being at home, so there’s no rush.
What should I look for before signing the lease?
As you read over your lease, take note of the following:
- The lease period (start date and end date)
- The process for renewing the lease/moving out
- The process to terminate the lease/cost of breaking the lease
- The rent amount and the due date
- The late fee and the date the fee is assessed
- Pet fees and restrictions
- Any included utilities
- Agreed-upon changes (ensure they’ve been added to the lease)
- Rules and policies concerning cosmetic changes you are/are not allowed to make
- Rules about guests and noise
- Rules concerning adding roommates
- Any prohibitions (things you cannot do, such as sublet the apartment)
- Additional fees
- Parking rules and/or fees
- Is renter’s insurance required?
Where does my lease get stored?
It depends, but many apartment communities store leases digitally. Often, you can go to the property’s website and review your lease agreement. If you want a physical copy, go ahead and print it out. You can also save a copy digitally as a backup.
If you lease through Apartments.com, you’ll get a notification from the landlord when your lease is ready to sign. On Apartments.com, click on the menu at the top left and find Renter Tools. Click on "My Home" and select "Residences." To request changes, go to “Other Actions” to make the suggested change, which will then be sent to the landlord for review.
Online leasing has proved it's here to stay, growing steadily in popularity. And, with the ability to video chat, you can speak directly with the landlord or property manager and get your questions answered in real time. If you haven’t started your online apartment search yet, try taking a few virtual apartment tours. You’ll have that new place in no time!
