Pay the rent on time, every time. If not paid on the first, you will be provided with a Notice To End Tenancy, which gives 5 days to pay or 10 days to move out. If you pay rent late more than 3 times in a 12 month span, you risk eviction for frequent late payment of rent.
Maintain the premises and the surrounding area clean and in good condition.
Keep noise to a level that will not disturb the neighbors.
Repair any damage occurring to the rental property through the fault of yourself, family members or guests. Notify your me at once of major damage.
Provide permission to enter the rental at reasonable times and with advance notice to inspect it or to make any necessary repairs.
Notify the me of any anticipated prolonged absence from the rental.
When moving out, give proper advanced notice. Be sure that the rental property is in the same condition as when you moved in and return the keys promptly.
Notify the me immediately if the rental property needs repair. If notification is neglected, you may be charged for the additional damage as a result of not reporting the matter.
Promptly pay for all utilities that the landlord does not otherwise agree to pay for.
See your tenancy agreement for specific details that you agreed to by signing the contract.
What am I not responsible for?
Reasonable wear and tear which refers to natural deterioration that occurs due to aging and other natural forces, where you have used the premises in a reasonable manner.
What is my security deposit for?
Any damage caused by deliberate action or negligence is the your responsibility. The damage deposit may be used to rectify a problem at the end of a tenancy but an interim matter should be reported to me as soon as possible. Please note that liability for damage is not limited to the amount of a damage deposit.
Do I really have to clean/do these things?
Yes, the you are expected to have the carpets professionally cleaned, window coverings washed, cleaned behind appliances, walls, vents/grilles and glass. Cleaned on a regular basis and then again at the end of the tenancy. Yards, walkways and driveways require regular upkeep, which includes raking leaves, shoveling snow, maintaining gardens, and mowing/trimming lawns as required for safety and relative curb-appeal. Bulbs, filters and fuses must also be replaced as necessary. Fireplaces and chimneys must be maintained and cleaned if being used. You are also responsible for freeing blocked plumbing, lost keys or similar negligence.
How do I give notice to move out?
Do you have an active tenancy agreement which has not expired? If so, you must take full responsibility for breaking your tenancy agreement which may not just be limited to costs. If you are on a month-to month tenancy, you are required to give 30 days notice on or before the last day of the rental period to move out at the end of the next month. For example, if you wish to move out at the end of July, you will have to provide written notice before the end of June.
Can I put things on the wall or alter the premises in any way?
Before hanging anything on a wall, you should request permission to do so. You must repair walls where an excessive number of nail holes, large nails, anchors, screws or tape have been used and have left wall damage. You must not paint, renovate, or otherwise alter the premises without the written consent before undertaking any work.
Can I disconnect the annoying alarm?
No, you must not disable or alter any security alarms, CO detectors, or smoke alarms and must also notify me of any malfunctions or if new batteries are required.
Can I have telephone, satellite or cable installed?
If you want to change or install a dish or extra jacks written permission is required before any work is conducted.
Can the Property Manager or Owner come in if I refuse?
Yes, with 24 hours to 30 days notice, the Property Manager or Owner can be reasonably accessed with or without your permission. You do not have to be present but may opt to do so.
Can we make as much noise as we want to during the daytime?
Within reason however, excessive noise is not permitted at any time. Please review the town bylaws for clarity.
Do I have to carry insurance?
It is a requirement to carry tenancy insurance in the event that unexpected damage occurs to the property, thus your possessions, and possibly your displacement.
Can I call the Property Manager outside of regular office hours?
Yes, but for emergencies only. It is considered an emergency if it effects health and safety or imminent damage to the property.
Are we allowed to take on another roommate?
Possibly, but at the reasonable discretion of the Property Manager. Additional costs may be involved. This must be approved in writing before the extra party moves in.
How do we get an extension to pay rent?
Your Property Manager is under no obligation to grant an extension of time. Communication of any problems in paying rent must be undertaken as soon as possible.
I will just do my own repair...
Wait! Are you certified/qualified? Do you have written permission to proceed? Most tenants should not attempt things like clearing eaves troughs, pruning large trees, changing electrical breakers or outlets, removing a toilet, or performing roof repairs.
We're not sure what to do ...
If ever in doubt, contact your Property Manager who can answer your question.
