1. Have you read everything before you sign?
Read everything front and back very carefully and take all the time you need to do so. Once you sign a document, it is difficult to argue that you didn’t read it.

2. Have you written it all down?
Even if the landlord doesn't use a written agreement, you should write everything down. Your written agreement should include all the terms you have agreed on at the time you sign it. Terms or promises not written into the agreement are unenforceable and often end up in court.

3. Never leave blanks.
Never sign anything with blanks to be filled in later. Either complete all blanks or draw a line through them.

4. Have any promises to make repairs at a later date been noted in writing?
Promises to make repairs when a landlord is trying to rent a unit may be forgotten after time has passed.

5. Do you clearly understand what you are signing?
If you don't understand, ask the landlord to explain. Write down the landlord's explanation on a separate piece of paper and have both parties initial it as your mutual understanding of the provision. It may be hard to argue that you didn't understand something after you have signed it.

6. Don't be reluctant to cross out a word or even a whole paragraph.
The provisions you and the landlord write into the agreement by hand indicate that you have reached a mutual agreement. In most cases, the handwritten modification will be more effective and will be enforced by a court of law in spite of what the printed form says. Be certain that both parties initial any modification.

7. Have you carefully inspected the unit and noted any defects or damages in writing?
This can help avoid future disputes about breaks, damages, or cleanliness.

8. Did you get a copy of the signed rental agreement?
The landlord is required to give you a copy of the rental agreement, (90.220(3)) and it is best to get the copy in person at the time you sign it. If there is any later dispute, the first thing you need is the agreement. If you lose your copy of the lease, you may request that the landlord make you a copy at no more than 25 cents per page. (90.305(4b))