Tenant FAQs
Answers to your frequently asked questions
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When is rent due?
Rent is due on the 1st of each month -
Is there a grace period?
Yes. Rent may be paid through the 3rd without late fees. -
What happens if I pay late?
Late fees may apply after the grace period. If rent remains unpaid, a Notice to Vacate may also be posted and a fee for $125.00 will be posted on the ledger. -
How are payments applied?
Payments are applied to outstanding balances first, including fees, utilities, repair charges, or other non-rent charges before being applied to rent. If you have an outstanding balance please include with rent payment to avoid late fees on rent. -
Do weekends, holidays, or mail delays excuse a late payment?
No. Rent must still be received on time regardless of weekends, holidays, or mail delays. -
Can I pay rent in cash?
No. Rent may not be paid in cash unless otherwise agreed. Accepted payment methods may include cashier’s checks, money orders, personal checks, or electronic payments. We do offer Retail Cash Pay (download QR code through portal) -
Retail Cash Pay
Cash payments can be made through RentVine using approved retail payment locations. -
What happens if my payment is returned?
A returned payment fee may apply, and payment is required to be certified funds only. -
How do I submit a maintenance request?
All maintenance requests should be submitted through the Resident Portal. -
What is considered an emergency?
Emergencies include:- Active flooding
- Major plumbing leaks
- No heat during freezing temperatures
- Fire, smoke, or gas odor
- Sewage backup
- Electrical hazards
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What is not considered an emergency?
The following are generally not emergencies:- Air conditioning
- Slow drains
- One appliance not working
- One sink or toilet not working when others are available
- No hot water for a short period while awaiting vendor scheduling
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Will I be charged for repairs?
If the repair is caused by tenant damage, neglect, misuse, dirty filters, clogged drains, disposal jams, broken windows, or failure to properly maintain the property, the tenant may be charged. -
Do I need to change HVAC filters?
Yes. Tenants are responsible for regularly changing HVAC filters. Failure to do so can cause damage to the system and may result in repair charges. -
Can I withhold rent if there is a maintenance issue?
No. Rent must still be paid according to the lease. -
Can I make repairs myself and deduct them from rent?
No. Repairs must be approved and coordinated through management. -
Can I repair something myself?
No. Tenants may not complete repairs or hire contractors without written approval from management. -
What if I call the emergency line for a non-emergency?
A non-emergency hotline fee may apply if the emergency line is used for an issue that does not qualify as an emergency. -
Who is responsible for utilities?
Tenants are responsible for placing utilities in their name by the lease start date. Unless, otherwise stated in your lease. -
What if the utility company says the owner needs to do something first?
The tenant is still responsible for completing the utility setup process. Delays with inspections or utility company scheduling do not remove the tenant’s responsibility. -
How much notice do I need to give before moving out?
Please refer to your lease for the required notice period. Most leases require a 30 day written notice in advance. -
When will I receive my security deposit back?
Security deposit accounting is typically provided within 30 days after move-out, as required by Texas law. A forwarding address will need to be provided. -
What can be deducted from my security deposit?
Possible deductions may include:- Unpaid rent or fees
- Cleaning charges
- Tenant-caused damage
- Missing items
- Yard maintenance
- Utilities left unpaid
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What is considered normal wear and tear?
Normal wear and tear includes minor scuffs, small nail holes, or light carpet wear from normal use. -
What is considered damage?
Damage includes large holes in walls, broken windows, pet damage, stained carpet, missing blinds, broken doors, or damage caused by neglect. -
Can I use my security deposit for my last month’s rent?
No. The lease does not allow tenants to use the security deposit in place of the last month’s rent. -
What happens if I do not give notice before moving out?
If proper written notice is not given, the lease may automatically renew on a month-to-month basis. -
What happens if I leave personal items behind after move-out?
Any items left behind may be disposed of, donated, stored, or sold. The tenant may also be charged for removal, storage, or disposal costs. -
Can I leave items behind when I move out?
No. Any items left behind may result in hauling, cleaning, or disposal charges. -
What happens if my lease changes to month-to-month?
If the lease converts to a month-to-month tenancy, it continues until either party provides written notice. The termination is generally effective on the last day of the month following the month notice is given. -
Can guests stay at the property?
Yes, but guests may not stay more than 7 consecutive days without written approval. -
Can I run a business from the property?
No. The property may only be used as a private residence unless written approval is given. -
Can I list the property on Airbnb or another short-term rental site?
No. Listing the property on short-term rental sites is prohibited. -
Can I have a trampoline, above-ground pool, spa, or hot tub?
No. These items are not allowed unless specifically approved in writing. -
How many vehicles can I keep at the property?
Up to 4 vehicles are allowed unless otherwise approved in writing. (please review the lease if you are in a duplex, apartment or condo.) -
Can I park in the yard?
No. Vehicles may only be parked in garages, driveways, designated parking areas, or on the street if allowed. -
Am I responsible for yard maintenance?
Yes. Unless otherwise stated in the lease, tenants are responsible for mowing, trimming, weed control, debris removal, and regular watering. -
Am I allowed to smoke at the property?
No. Smoking, vaping, or tobacco use is not allowed anywhere on the property. -
Can I change locks or install security devices?
No. Any lock changes, rekeying, or installation of security devices must be approved in writing. -
Can I paint, install fixtures, or make alterations to the property?
No. Alterations such as painting, changing flooring, installing fixtures, adding alarm systems, or mounting satellite dishes require written approval. -
What should I do when I move in?
You should complete and return the Inventory and Condition Form within 2 days of move-in. -
What repair items are usually considered tenant responsibility?
Tenants are generally responsible for repairs caused by negligence, clogged drains, broken windows, damaged screens, washer or dryer issues, disposal jams, phone or cable jacks, dirty filters, and water or ice maker issues. -
What happens if I stay after my lease ends?
If you remain in the property after your lease ends without approval, holdover rent may apply at three times the normal monthly rent. -
Can I break my lease early?
Early lease termination is subject to the lease terms. Reletting fees, continued rent responsibility, and other charges may apply. -
Can I have pets?
Only approved pets or assistance animals are allowed. Any required documentation must be submitted and approved before the animal is brought onto the property. -
Can I add or remove a roommate?
Any change in occupants must be approved through management. Additional application fees or lease changes may apply. -
Can I make changes to the property?
No alterations, painting, satellite dishes, locks, or other changes should be made without written approval. -
How do I contact management?
For non-emergency questions, please contact management during normal business hours or through the Resident Portal. -
Where is the office located?
1901 Matthews Lane Austin, Texas 78745.
