Documents you can expect to be asked for when renting a property
- Passport
- Proof of employment (letter from your employer, employment contract, etc.)
- Financial information (bank statement, proof of support, etc.)
- Social Security Number (if already obtained)
- Contact information of previous landlords
- Depending on how intense the building is, you might need other letters of reference, but it’s not that common. Just in case, keep in mind people from both your personal and professional life who could speak highly of your character.
- If you are self-employed then you might be asked for your tax returns for the last two years. Or even a letter from your accountant.
If you're looking in an especially competitive section of the market then bring these to the viewing, at least electronically
International Credit Score / Copy Employment Contract
The main difference between renting in the US as a local and as an expat is that you might need to provide more documents than a local does in order to prove your financial stability. US landlords rely on US credit ratings when considering a candidate's ability to pay rent. It is worth bringing your international credit score to the US and be prepared to show your employment documentation.
How Much Deposit to Prepare
According to NYC rental laws, a landlord is not allowed to charge more than $20 for an application/credit check or take more than the equivalent of one month’s rent as a security deposit. Also they can't ask for the whole rent upfront to hold the property etc
Rental Agreement or Lease?
Unlike in many other countries there is a difference between these documents, so make sure to decide in advance which type of rental contract you need.
Lease is usually the most common option when it comes to rentals. This document lasts a fixed amount of time (six months, a year, or longer) and needs to be extended at the end of the rental period. During the length of the contract, the landlord is not allowed to make any adjustment to the tenancy terms (including that they cannot increase the rental price) unless both parties agree upon them.
Rental agreements are more appealing to tenants that are interested in short-term, month-to-month type of rentals. These contracts usually last a month or 30 days and get renewed automatically unless a written notice of termination is given. This type of tenancy agreement allows for the landlord to change contract details anytime so long as they give prior notice.