The Hidden Costs Buried in Your 'Standard' Apartment Lease

You found the perfect apartment. The rent fits your budget. But have you checked Section 14.2? Landlords are increasingly shifting costs to tenants through creative lease clauses.

1. CAM Charges (Common Area Maintenance)

Traditionally a commercial lease term, CAM charges are creeping into residential luxury buildings. This pass-through cost forces you to pay for the building's lobby lighting, hallway cleaning, and even the concierge's salary. This can add $100-$300/mo on top of your rent.

2. The "Early Termination" Fee vs. "Rent Acceleration"

Most leases have a fee for breaking the lease (e.g., 2 months' rent). That's standard. But watch out for "Rent Acceleration."

3. Mandatory "Valet Trash" and "Technology Packages"

Landlords love non-optional amenities. You might see a $35/mo charge for "Valet Trash" (someone picks up your garbage from your door) or a $90/mo "Tech Package" (basic cable you don't watch). These are rarely advertised in the listing price but are binding in the lease.

4. Guest Policies

Read the "Occupancy" section. Some draconian leases define a "guest" as anyone staying more than 48 hours. If your partner stays over for a long weekend, technically, you are in breach of lease and can be evicted or fined.