RESOURCES
Rental Owners’ FAQ
Will I lose control over my property if LeasingandManagement.com manages my property?
Absolutely not! We believe in full transparency and keep the communication lines open, not only with an online Owner portal, but also with calls and emails from our large team so our clients can see what is going on with their investments.
How does LeasingandManagement.com ensure competitive rent rates for my property?
At LeasingandManagement.com we employ various assessment tools to monitor the markets. Using our extensive market knowledge, comparative analysis and market saturation trends, we are able to evaluate the best rental rate suggestions for your real estate investment. We compare rent rates for properties similar to yours and come up with attractive rent rates for your property.
How does LeasingandManagement.com ensure effective marketing of vacancies available? How is the cost of the advertisement covered?
For new properties,we at LeasingandManagement.com market your investment immediately. We take professional photos and our marketing team publishes them with a well-written description to optimally show your investment to procure tenants. For existing properties, we implement a 4-6 month renewal service to allow appropriate marketing time to help lower the risk for any vacancy.
we use multiple web hosting sites to push your investment to more than 60+ websites. we also use an online system to monitor and report to our owners, the activity, showings and feedback on our listings.
What is the average time period for getting a vacancy filled?
Our historic vacancy rate over the past 20 years has been less than 2% and often times, the only vacancy we have is relegated to new properties that come to us vacant.
What is the policy around allowing pets on the property?
We welcome the discussion of the pros and cons on allowing or disallowing pets on the property.
Is there any screening criteria for prospective tenants?
Yes!
At LeasingandManagement.com, we follow a strict screening process to ensure we have the best possible tenants residing at your properties.
All potential clients have background checks, credit history checks as well as verification of employment status and previous rental history from past landlords.
Only after the application screening criteria requirements are met, are tenants offered the rental property.
Are the tenants required to provide any security deposits before they move in?
Yes!
We require tenants to place the full amount of the security deposit in trust at the time of approval.
At the time of signing lease agreement and before key is handed over, all money due for rent, pro rent and additional fees has to be paid in full.
How does LeasingandManagement.com handle utilities?
There are many ways to handle utilities and each property is different with regard to number of meters, users, units, etc. In most cases the tenants are responsible for utility turn-on and turn-off but in some cases it is necessary for LeasingandManagement.com to maintain the utilities and bill the tenants. These are handled on a case by case basis.
How does LeasingandManagment.com handle repair work that may arise at my property?
For our full service property management, we coordinate all the repairs. We have an extensive network of vendors who value our large amount of business. Utilizing our large market share for priority and preference. We also have a landscaping and maintenance company that caters to our needs exclusively.
How does LeasingandManagment.com handle tenants that do not pay rent or pay late?
We take pride in a strong enforcement of the lease which includes making sure tenants pay rents on time. When the occasions arise where they do not, we employ a prompt method of follow up on late payments and, if necessary, filing ejectment.
What process has to be followed for the tenant to be released from the lease agreement?
The tenant is responsible for the term of the lease. We do not allow a tenant out of a lease until a new, approved, tenant is procured.
Once a new tenant is approved, a detailed move out assessment of the property is carried out.
If the property meets the inspection criteria and no damages or changes are observed, the tenant can be released from the lease agreement and refunded the security deposit.
What is the application fee used for?
An application fee is a non-refundable fee charged to prospective tenants applying for a property. This fee covers costs associated with carrying out background and credit checks on the tenant.
How does LeasingandManagement.com handle calls made in the middle of the night?
Our professional and dedicated team at LeasingandManagment.com will handle all emergency, non-emergency and middle of the night calls.
When can I expect to have my monthly report and funds disbursement?
We have monthly statement processes.
We disburse funds on or about the 8th of each month depending on holidays and weekends.
Our standard statement dates range from the date of the last disbursement to the current disbursement.
LeasingandManagement.com suggests that you sign up for the electronic transfer via “Paylease” to ensure regular and timely delivery of your funds, usually within three business days.
LeasingandManagement.com prides itself on the online statement viewing feature. You will receive an email notification as soon as your monthly statement is ready.
You can log in to your password protected account to view your monthly statements at your convenience from the comfort of wherever you are at the click of a button.
What is your policy around insurance coverage of the property?
LeasingandManagement.com encourages all owners to have an in depth discussion about their property’s insurance needs and coverage with a professional insurance agent.
LeasingandManagement.com requires all tenants to acquire renter’s insurance as they move in to a property. While this is not a requirement by law, the insurance stands them in good stead in the event of a tragedy.
In addition, we clarify in the terms of the lease agreement that any loss or damage to a tenant’s contents during the period of tenancy will not be covered by the owner’s insurance.
What if I decide to sell my investment property?
Leasingandmanagement.com does not list properties for sale, however, we will help facilitate what is necessary for your listing agent and can even make a recommendation for an agent that specializes in investment properties in the appropriate area.
Tenants’ FAQ
Is it possible to apply for a property “sight unseen”?
No, it is not possible to apply for any properties sight unseen since no property can be rented without viewing it first. If there is no way for you to view the residence, please contact our office.
While in most cases, photos are of the actual properties, these photos are only representative of the size and space of the interior of the property. It is always recommended that the property should be viewed in person to ensure that the size and space are as per their requirements.
How much do I have to pay as the security deposit?
The security deposit is equal to one month’s rent and needs to be paid in full in order to be able to move in.
When will I have to pay my rent?
Rent will always be due on the first day of the month. Past midnight on the first, your rent will be considered late. You do get a grace period of 5 days.
If the rent payment is not received by the end of the 5th business day, you will be charged a late fee of 10% on the outstanding balance. The late fee will also be due with your rent payment.
What are the different payment options I can use to pay rent?
You can:
- Mail check or money order to our office with your complete address and unit number on the memo.
- Pay online by signing into your tenant portal.
- Pay in person at our office
We do not accept cash payments due to security reasons.
What happens if I am unable to pay my rent?
If you know that you will not be able to make your rent payment, please call our office and notify our accounts receivable department immediately.
What is the process of requesting any repairs or maintenance?
If it is a non-emergency repair, you can send your request in writing via our online Tenant portal or email your property manager or call our office at 843-723-1988. We try to assign work orders to our independent vendors as quickly as possible.
How do I resolve any plumbing issues?
Whenever there is a plumbing issue, the first thing you should do is turn off the water. You should then call our office and speak to the Property Manager.
In case the issue occurs after business hours, you should call our emergency line and leave a message describing the problem at hand. Our on-call property manager will be in touch with you shortly.
What steps should I take if the smoke detector starts beeping?
If the smoke detector starts to beep, it might be possible that the battery needs to be changed. You can purchase one at your local hardware store or the local market.
In case you are unable to reach the smoke detector due to vaulted ceilings, you must complete a maintenance request form. Keep in mind that it is illegal to disconnect your smoke detector.
What happens if I get locked out of my apartment?
If the lockout happens during regular business hours, the property manager should be notified who will meet you and let you in if they are available. Otherwise you can arrange to pick up a key.
If the lockout happens after hours, you will have to arrange and pay a locksmith on your own. If you have misplaced your key, a duplicate key can be provided for a fee.
We try our best to help you avoid getting yourself locked out but unfortunately, lockouts are not considered an emergency.
Is there an emergency phone line that I can call?
Yes!
You can call 843-723-1988 to report any after hour emergencies and you will be prompted to an emergency hotline.
As per the terms of your lease agreement, an emergency is defined as a situation where the condition of the property is affected to an extent that it endangers the physical health or safety of the tenant(s).
Generally speaking, repairs required for heating and air conditioning do not constitute an emergency but will be reviewed keeping the weather in mind.
To keep the after-hours emergency response efficient, tenants are requested not to call the emergency number for non-emergency requests.
What are some examples of situations that can be considered an emergency?
Some examples of maintenance emergencies are as follows.
If water is coming into the home because the main sewer line is clogged or a water pipe has broken or is leaking.
In weather conditions colder than 32 degrees, failure of the heating system would constitute an emergency.
Getting locked out of the apartment is not an emergency.
Will I be charged for any maintenance at the property?
Tenants will be charged only if the maintenance issue arises due to a tenant or his/her negligence in looking after the property.
What will happen if for some reason I am unable to pay rent?
Please contact us to help you navigate the situation, but keep in mind we are bound to follow the terms of the lease agreement
Are tenants required to obtain renters insurance?
Yes.
Tenants have to provide proof of renter’s insurance prior to taking possession of the residence.
Who is responsible for taking care of lawns?
Please refer to your lease. In many cases it is the tenant’s responsibility to look after the lawn, water it regularly, mow and weed the lawn as required. Should you need assistance with managing the landscaping, please contact us.
If the tenant causes the grass to die, additional cost incurred to re-sod the yard will be charged to the tenant. It is the tenant’s responsibility to clean up leaves in the fall and remove snow from sidewalks and driveways in winter.
What is your policy on smoking indoors or on the rental property?
Smoking is a major health risk and we do not permit smoking indoors or anywhere on the rental property.
Can tenants sublease their apartment?
No. Tenants cannot sublease the apartment. We do not permit subleasing. If you need to re-lease your property, please contact your Property Manager.
Can tenants have a roommate at a later time?
Any new person that you decide to bring on to the property will have to go through the same screening process that all tenants go through.
Your roommate will have to fill in the rental application, pay the associated application fee and be checked for background etc. The management needs to know all occupants of the property. Failure to follow the due process can lead to termination of your lease agreement.
What if one of the roommates moves out of the property before the term of the lease agreement ends?
Please remember that tenants are jointly and separately responsible for paying rent. In the event of a roommate moving out before the end of the lease agreement, the property manager needs to be notified through a written notice. Tenants must obtain a written permission letter from the property manager to substitute a roommate.
What is your policy on acquiring pets after moving into the property or adding more pets?
All tenants must talk to the property manager about any plans to acquire a new pet or add to existing pets. Depending on the number and types of pets, this request may or may not be approved.
What if the tenant wants to paint all or part of the rental space a different color?
All color change requests must be submitted to the office in writing and will be approved at the discretion of the owner. The office may or may not require tenants to deposit extra funds in the security deposit if the color change request is approved.
What is your policy on changing or adding locks?
Changing locks or re-keying without approval constitutes a serious violation of your lease agreement.
If the tenant desires to change, re-key, install or replace any security devices, he/she must send such a request to the office in writing.
Following approval, the tenants must pay for all expenses associated in advance. Any changes can only be made through approved contractors authorized by the management.
Can I get a satellite dish?
Each property has different requirements. Please contact your Property Manager who can assist in answering your questions.
How do I give my notice to vacate and how many months’ notice do you require?
Please refer to your lease concerning 30 day notice. Our company usually sends out 30 day notice 3-6 months in advance to allow advance notice to tenants on their decision.
Move In Move Out Checklists & Guide
Every day thousands of people move in and out of their rental properties. Some moves go smoothly while others can leave both parties flustered. A little preparation can help both landlords and tenants make this event less stressful. These days most landlords will attach a checklist to the lease agreement to specify how exactly the property should be left at move out and any other obligations that need to be fulfilled. What should a Move-Out a Checklist include? The contents and details of the move-out checklist will depend on the type of the property, the duration of the tenancy and the area you live in. Generally speaking, the purpose of the move-out checklist is to let the tenant know how the move out should happen and what obligations need to be fulfilled on the part of the tenant. A tenant is required to return the property to the landlord in the same condition in which it was acquired. The checklist can also specify that how any changes to the property should be handled. Why should we have a move out checklist? The importance of a checklist comes in to play when its time to get your security deposit back from the landlord. If the tenant understands and adheres to the requirements specified in the checklist, it is easier to claim the full amount of the security deposit. If the landlord provides a clear detailed checklist, it is easier to keep a portion of the security deposit to pay for any damages or unauthorized changes to the property. Sample Move Out Checklist
- Move out notice: The tenant should provide a written notice of intent to move out to the landlord. The notice period will be specified in the lease agreement. This will help both parties to schedule a move-out inspection of the property. The landlord should be notified of any damages as they happen and not kept as a surprise for move out.
- Access time: Have a candid discussion around when and how often the landlord/property manager can bring people to view the property. This is usually stated in the lease agreement. Make sure you have enough notice, usually 24 hours. Please state your availability or access hours in writing to avoid any scuffles later on.
- Moving dates: If your move out date falls on a public holiday or a significant holiday, make sure that you let this be known and make sure that everyone is fine with it.
- Cleaning up the apartment: The tenant should clean the entire apartment, kitchen, bathrooms, sweep the floors, closets, drawers, refrigerator, stoves, microwave and any other appliances provided by the landlord. If the apartment was carpeted, make sure the carpets are returned clean. You might be asked to fumigate if you have had pets. Ensure that windows and the exterior area are cleaned up as well. Baseboards is another area that is often forgotten and raise issues. Don’t forget to take out the garbage.
- Changes to the rental unit: If you have changed the color of the paint on the wall(s), make sure you paint them back their original color unless your landlord has authorized the change. Failing to reverse the unauthorized changes is just cause for your landlord to not return the full amount of your security deposit.
- Electric appliances: All electric appliances, devices, light bulbs should be left in working condition including phone jacks.
- Smoke alarms: The smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms/detectors should be checked to make sure they are working properly.
- Personal furniture/possessions: Do not leave behind any personal furniture or possessions that were not there when you moved in. Again, check with the landlord ahead of time if there is a specific piece you would want to leave behind.
- Landscaping/Mowing: If the property has any lawns or landscaping, make sure it is returned to the original condition. Some people take before and after photos to be clear.
- Heating: Make sure that all the heating systems are working properly, the plumbing should not have any leaks or blockages. These are big ticket maintenance issues and must be addressed if you want your full deposit back.
- Utilities: You can start transferring the utility accounts back to the landlord but have the utilities working until after the inspection is completed.
- Keys: Last but not least make sure you arrange with your landlord to set up a time for returning the keys especially if the move out is happening over a major public holiday. What should a Move-in Checklist include?
A move-in checklist should include essentially the same items that a move out checklist has. A move-in checklist is something that the landlord can use to organize himself and the property for the tenant. Why should we have a Move-in Checklist? From the tenant’s point of view, without a move-in checklist, you can put yourself at a serious disadvantage during move out as well as through the duration of the tenancy. A sound move-in checklist will help you ensure you there are no surprises and that you get your full security deposit back. A sample Move-In Checklist
- Lease agreement: Go over the terms and conditions of the lease agreement to make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities. Clarify any terms that appear dubious.Get a clear understanding of how any changes will be handled. The lease agreement should specify how changes would be authorized and when and how your security deposit will be returned.
- Inspection of the rental unit: Inspect the rental space and make sure that it has been swept clean for you including kitchen, bathrooms, closets, windows, drawers, baseboards, windows and carpets if applicable. It’s a good idea to open and close doors, windows, blinds, appliances, and drawers to ensure they are working properly.
- Electric appliances: Check that all electric appliances provided in the kitchen, laundry are in excellent working condition.
- Smoke alarms/detectors: Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms/detectors should be installed and in working condition.
- Carpets: If space is carpeted, you might want to check out the condition and take photos for later use. If you see any stains or rips, make sure you bring it to the attention of the landlord. Walk around the rental space and observe any funny smells and where they might be emanating from.
- Heating and Plumbing: Check the heating and air conditioning, if applicable, to see if they are in working condition. Flush the toilets and check all taps/faucets for any leaks or blockages.
- Utility Meters: Make sure you get the utility meters readings at move in, take pictures to be sure. Have the landlord co-sign the meter readings.
- Landscaping/lawn mowing: If the property has any landscaped lawns, make sure you take pictures and understand how you will be keeping up with its maintenance.
- Contact information/communication: Last but not least, arrange when and how your landlord wants to be communicated with to ensure you know how to reach him/her.
Please return the property as close to the original condition as possible. This will ensure that you get your security deposit as close to the original amount as possible. All the best with your move in or move out!!