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Couple more things.
When you inspect the apartment, or before you do, go knock on some doors elsewhere in the complex if you can get access. Tell them that you're thinking of moving in, and you just want to know what building management is like. This kind of builds on on shesus said, but it's just a good way to find out.
When you are ready to sign the papers, do a walk-through of the entire apartment with the landlord. Note problems that are already there on a log sheet and try to get the landlord to sign it; if you've got access to a video camera, it's even better to videotape the inspection.
You do all this so the landlord can't try to hold deposit money back, when you leave, for some crack in the wall or chipped counter that was already that way when you moved in. Some landlords are crooked that way, some just forget (but won't trust what you say on the matter), and, if it's a management company, the guy who checks you out of the apartment may not be the guy who checked you in and may not be willing to believe that some of the problems predate your tenancy.
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