Tenant FAQs
Our process is simple and straightforward. Please visit our application page for complete details.
Regular maintenance is submitted on the Maintenance Request page. You can request service 7 days a week 24 hours a day. Emergency service can be requested via our 24-hour emergency line.
Although we have standard pet policies that apply to all properties, it is up to the individual Owner whether they will allow pets. So, although most properties do allow a pet, there are some where none are allowed. Pet friendly properties are listed on our website. If you are not sure just give us a call. You can view our pet policies at our Website on the application page.
Your responsibilities are clearly listed on the lease itself. In general a fee will be charged to break our lease equal to 1 ½ month’s rent. Members of the Military are exempt and are not charged any fees to break their lease.
By statute, we are required to refund any funds to you no later than 31 days after your move out date. But we always attempt to get your funds to you much sooner. Typically within 15 days if no repairs are required.
Yes, you can, but only with written permission. The Owner may deny certain modifications or require that you return the property to its original status when you move out. But modifications are not automatically denied and are taken on a case by case basis.
Possibly. This is up to the Owner, but often an Owner will consider selling the property if the Tenant is interested.
Our standard lease term is 12 months, but some Owners will accept shorter or longer terms. Please contact us to see if a shorter or longer term lease is available on the property you are interested in.
What Is Normal Wear and Tear?
Normal wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration of a rental property and its fixtures that occurs due to ordinary, everyday use. It is the natural aging of materials and surfaces over time, which landlords are typically responsible for maintaining.
Examples of Normal Wear and Tear
Faded Paint: Over time, paint can naturally fade due to exposure to sunlight or general aging.
Worn Carpet: Carpeting in high-traffic areas may exhibit signs of wear, such as thinning or slight discoloration, which is expected after several years.
Scuffed Flooring: Minor scuffs or scratches on hardwood floors from normal foot traffic or moving furniture.
Loose Door Handles: Frequent use can cause door handles to become loose or slightly wobbly.
Small Nail Holes: Tiny holes in walls from hanging pictures or shelving are typical signs of use. But our policy requires the use of 3M Brand Command Strips to avoid holes altogether.
Minor Scratches or Dents: Walls and doors might show minor dents or scratches that occur over time.
What Is Property Damage in a Rental?
Property damage in a rental refers to harm or destruction that goes beyond normal wear and tear, often caused by negligence, misuse, or intentional actions by the tenant. Unlike wear and tear, property damage can lead to deductions from the security deposit to pay for repairs or even additional repair charges over and above the security deposit, depending on the severity.
Examples of Property Damage
Broken Windows: A window shattered by negligence or carelessness (e.g., throwing an object) constitutes damage. Also torn or missing screens.
Holes in Walls: Large holes or significant damage caused by drilling or punching through the wall. Also excessive small holes in walls that require patching, texturing and re-painting.
Stained or Burned Carpet: Permanent stains from spills or burns from cigarettes that cannot be cleaned or repaired. Dirty carpets that require cleaning.
Broken Appliances: Damage to appliances like stoves, dishwashers, microwaves, washers & dryers or refrigerators due to misuse.
Pet Damage: Significant scratches on floors, doors, windows or walls caused by pets, or persistent pet odors requiring deep cleaning or replacement. Replacement of window coverings.
Water Damage: Damage caused by overflowing tubs, sinks, or neglecting to report leaks that cause further damage.
Light Bulbs: Broken, missing or non-working bulbs.
Dirty Property: Property not cleaned as per Rent Builder Tenant Handbook Standards.
Damage to landscaping: Including dead plants & lawns, weeds, trash and debris, and damage to hardscape, etc.