Tenant Handbook
TENANT HANDBOOK
§ 55-248.17. Rules and regulations
A. A landlord, from time to time, may adopt rules or regulations, however, described, concerning the tenants' use and occupancy of the dwelling unit and premises. Any such rule or regulation is enforceable against the tenant only if:
1. Its purpose is to promote the convenience, safety or welfare of the tenants in the premises, preserve the landlord's property from abusive use or make a fair distribution of services and facilities held out for the tenants generally;
2. It is reasonably related to the purpose for which it is adopted;
3. It applies to all tenants in the premises in a fair manner;
4. It is sufficiently explicit in its prohibition, direction or limitation of the tenant's conduct to fairly inform him of what he must or must not do to comply;
5. It is not for the purpose of evading the obligations of the landlord; and
6. The tenant has been provided with a copy of the rules and regulations or changes thereto at the time he enters into the rental agreement or when they are adopted.
B. A rule or regulation adopted, changed, or provided to the tenant after the tenant enters into the rental agreement shall be enforceable against the tenant if reasonable notice of its adoption or change has been given to the tenant and it does not work a substantial modification of his bargain. If a rule or regulation is adopted or changed after the tenant enters into the rental agreement that does work a substantial modification of his bargain, it shall not be valid unless the tenant consents to it in writing.
C. Any court enforcing this chapter shall consider violations of the reasonable rules and regulations imposed under this section as a breach of the rental agreement and grant the landlord appropriate relief.
Renters Warehouse Property Management
WELCOME! Thank you for choosing a home managed by Renters Warehouse. Our goal is to provide you with exceptional service and enjoyable renting experience.
Whether you are an experienced tenant or this is your first rental home, we believe you will find the material in this handbook helpful. Please take a moment to review this information to help maintain your comfort, safety, and the physical condition of the property.
This tenant handbook is an addendum to the lease and is intended to answer routine questions about your rental property. Please read the entire handbook carefully before taking possession of the property.
GENERAL OFFICE INFORMATION
CONTACT INFORMATION:
The general office email address is sevahello@renterswarehouse.com
**The preferred and most effective communication is via email. **
The office phone number is: 757-272-1616
Fax Number: 757-227-9489
OFFICE HOURS
Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Routine communications should be handled through the general email address provided above. Property Managers/Supervisors are seen by appointment ONLY and walk-ins are accommodated only in the event of an emergency and if the property manager is available.
DOWNLOAD YOUR TENANT PORTAL APP
Visit www.appfolio.com/help/online-portal for instructions on how to download your tenant portal app, instructions on how to activate your portal, how to sign in, make rent payments, submit maintenance requests, and general answers to your FAQ in regards to your tenant portal.
QR Code to website www.appfolio.com/help/online-portal
OPTIONS ON HOW TO SUBMIT A MAINTENANCE REQUEST
OPTION 1 - Tenant Online Portal
***PREFERRED METHOD: Download the Mobile app as described above.
OPTION 2 - Call Maintenance Line
To call in for maintenance requests and after-hours emergencies dial 757-452-4501
For sewage backups, call the emergency number of the City in which you live first to check the City lines for back-up.
EMERGENCIES
Includes no heat or hot water, severe storm damage, main sewer line blockage, broken pipes, electrical hazards, etc. Please contact the Emergency Maintenance line after normal working hours at 757-452-4501
If you have an emergency that involves fire or criminal acts, please call 911 first before calling Renters Warehouse. For fire, criminal acts, or other life and property threatening emergencies call 911 first before calling Renters Warehouse.
Hampton Roads Utility Company Information
ServiceVirginia Beach Norfolk Chesapeake Portsmouth Suffolk Hampton Newport News
Water/Sewage 385-4631 664-6700 382-6352 393-8524 514-7000 727-6346 926-1000
Emergencies 385-1400 823-1000 382-3550 393-8561 514-7000 727-8311 234-4800
Gas All Cities: Virginia Natural Gas 866-229-3578 - Portsmouth: Columbia Gas 800-543-8911
Electricity Dominion Power 888-667-3000
SMOKING IS NEVER PERMITTED INSIDE THE PROPERTY INCLUDING GARAGES AND ENCLOSED PATIOS
You have received a copy of the Condo Association / HOA Rules and Regulations and agree to follow all rules and further agree that you are responsible for any fines levied against the Landlord for failure to do so.
Any change in occupancy or pets/animals must be reported to and approved by management immediately.
If you change your phone number or email address you must notify management within 24 hours.
You agree to make arrangements to have all utilities in your name prior to possession and understand that a fine of $250.00 will be imposed if not done so.
RENT PAYMENTS
Become due the first day of each month without deduction or demand. Payments must be made online if available or in the form of certified funds such as cashier’s checks or money orders. All payments should be made to Renters Warehouse and mailed to:
Renters Warehouse
1354 Kempsville Road Suite -102
Chesapeake, VA 23320
There is also a dropbox to the left of the office entry door. Please ensure that the address for which you are paying rent is clearly printed on the cashier’s check or money order.
A payment coupon can be provided to you upon request. Just take this coupon to the most convenient 7-11, CVS, or Ace Cash Express location and pay your rent to the person at checkout. You will receive a receipt and this will immediately be credited to your account. A small vendor fee will be due at check-out.
If you elect to pay with a cashier’s check or money order, be aware that they can be difficult to replace if lost. If we do not receive timely payment for any reason, we must issue appropriate notices and proceed legally to protect the property owner’s interests.
**Please note, $10.00 paper payment fee applies to ALL cash, cashier’s check, or money order payment EXCEPT move-in money.
PERSONAL OR BUSINESS CHECKS ARE NEVER ACCEPTED!
All rent paid is first applied to any outstanding late fees, other fees, invoices, fines, and any previous rent due.
ZERO TOLERANCE
Renters Warehouse has a policy of Zero Tolerance. The arrest of any tenant, their family or guests for illegal activity including, but not limited to, any drug activity, may result in termination of the lease. Any person on the premises with permission shall not engage in acts or threats of violence including, but not limited to, disturbing the peace and unlawful discharge of firearms. A single violation shall constitute a material non-compliance with the lease and be considered sufficient cause for termination.
JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY
This concept used in conjunction with a residential lease means all tenants are responsible for all terms of the lease, including the payment of rent and the maintenance of the premises, both individually and as a group. Simply put, each tenant is responsible for the obligations of every other tenant. An understanding of this concept becomes particularly important when roommates are involved.
INSPECTIONS
Renters Warehouse shall, within five days of occupancy, submit a written report to the tenant for safekeeping, itemizing damages to the dwelling unit existing at the time of occupancy, which record shall be deemed correct unless the tenant objects in writing within five days after receipt. This satisfies our obligation under §55-248.11:1 of the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
PERIODIC INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE VISITS BY VENDORS
Renters Warehouse and/or its vendors may conduct random inspections to determine the condition/value of the property as needed. With the exception of emergencies or requested service, we will always give 4-24 hours’ notice to enter.
Tenant(s) will be charged an Administrative Fee between $100-$150 related to no show by the tenant for appointment or access not being granted once the appointment is set. WE DO NOT ISSUE KEYS TO VENDORS!
VEHICLES
Parking of vehicles shall be either in assigned areas (garage, parking lot, and driveway spaces or on the public street if allowed). Vehicles shall never be parked on lawns or sidewalks.
No unregistered, unlicensed or inoperable vehicle shall be stored on the property unless it is in the garage. Refer to the city/homeowner association/community for rules and restrictions on performing vehicle repairs on the property.
BUGS AND VERMIN
The property may be under a termite program and may have annual inspections and treatments. Please send the office written notification if you are concerned about the treatment of the property.
Small black ants are a seasonal issue throughout Hampton Roads; do not be alarmed by their continual presence in the spring and fall. You can pick up a product called TERRO at your local home store to combat these pests. Follow the directions found on the package and give it a couple days to work. Re-treat as necessary. It is the tenant’s responsibility to combat pests found in the home when it comes to roaches, spiders, bugs, and the occasional mouse.
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION/TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
PURPOSE
To provide information on the operation and routine requirements of most common appliances, heating and cooling units, electrical panels, and plumbing fixtures. If you experience a problem, refer to the appropriate section to assist you in isolating and describing the problem to your property manager.
MAINTENANCE
Routine maintenance and repairs will be performed during normal business hours. Property managers are not required to grant access to workmen or supervise work. Vendors will contact you directly to arrange access. If a vendor goes into overtime rates in order to accommodate your scheduling requests, you will be responsible to pay that additional charge.
Your lease prohibits you from making any permanent alterations to the property without written permission. Should you propose to do any maintenance or repairs to which the Landlord agrees, or should you be asked to perform maintenance at some point during your tenancy for which you expect reimbursement or compensation, you must get a detailed agreement and authorization in writing prior to beginning work. The Landlord and Agent are under no obligation to reimburse expenses without a written agreement to that effect.
LOCKOUTS
Keys provided to you when you take possession of the property are your responsibility. Property managers are not required to grant access in the event of a lockout. If lockout occurs during normal business hours and you have transportation, you may pick up a key from our office for a fee (if available). Your property manager will instruct you to call a locksmith if you are locked out after hours. You are not authorized to change or rekey any lock without written permission from your property manager except in cases of emergency. You must immediately inform your property manager of any change to locks and/or keys and furnish a complete set of working keys within 24 hours. Lubricate all locks with lock lubricant such as white lithium to ensure smooth operation and to prevent corrosion, which could lead to a lockout.
WATER SHUTOFF
Locate the main water cutoff valve. Most properties have a single valve (often located on the inside of an exterior wall near the front door, in the garage, utility room, closet or under a sink) which will stop all water from going to the interior lines. For example, most fixtures have individual cutoffs to enable you to shut off a leaking toilet, without impact to the rest of your water supply. Exterior water lines are sometimes controlled with a separate cutoff valve. This is useful for winterizing your exterior faucets to prevent damage from freezing. It is your responsibility to know the location of these cutoffs and how to use them to prevent water damage to the property in the event of an emergency.
ELECTRIC POWER
Locate the main power panel, normally situated back to back with the electric meter. In newer properties, you will find circuit breakers. These are operated by flipping a switch on and off. To check breakers, turn them off then on again. Often a tripped breaker will move only slightly and cannot be detected at first glance. There is normally a legend on the inside of the breaker box door indicating which circuits the breakers control.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS ARE NOT DESIGNED TO BE USED DAILY OR AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR ON/OFF SWITCHES.
GFI Circuits are included in many homes. GFI stands for Ground Fault Interrupter and these breakers function as additional safety devices that cut power to circuits when an abnormality (such as a short or overload) is detected. These breakers may be identified as a red or yellow button in the circuit breaker box or are otherwise different in appearance from other breakers. Another type of GFI looks like a typical wall outlet with a test/reset button between the plug-ins. GFI’s typically control the power to kitchens, baths, exterior, and sometimes garage and/or utility rooms. Always check the GFI breakers and outlets before requesting maintenance. Covers on exterior outlets should remain closed when not in use.
ALL BREAKERS SHOULD REMAIN “ON” DURING TENANCY.
Fuse panels are common in older homes. The replacement of bad fuses is the tenant’s responsibility. IN order to check a cartridge-type fuse, pull it out and check for any ruptures or burns. REPLACE THE HOLDER RIGHT SIDE UP. DON’T FORCE THE PRONGS APART. If inserted upside down, the holder will not operate. You should always keep several spare fuses in the required sizes on hand. Screw in fuses have a visible wire or red button in the cap which you can check. If the wire is broken/melted, replace the fuse. If the button is popped, push it in. NEVER REPLACE FUSES WITH SIZES OTHER THAN DESIGNATED.
HEAT / AC
Heat Pumps provide both heating and cooling from a single unit. Except during the most extreme weather, heat pumps should operate efficiently in all temperatures. They also have an auxiliary/emergency backup system which ensures you of heat in the event of a primary system failure. You can use the backup system to supplement the heat output of the system when the weather is extremely cold or provide emergency heat when an outage occurs.
Heat pump thermostats normally have two indicator lights that illuminate when the system is in auxiliary or emergency mode. The emergency indicator which is typically red will light when you have manually switched the heat pump to emergency mode. The auxiliary indicator, which is normally blue, will come on occasionally when the system is using the supplemental heating coils (similar to those in large ovens) to augment heat output. This is normal; do not be alarmed unless the auxiliary indicator stays lit for an extended period. This may indicate a problem with the system and you should request maintenance.
Should you notice water dripping from the interior portion of the heat pump during the air conditioning season, shut the unit off immediately and call for service. If you live in a 2 story property, you should adjust the vents in order to regulate airflow from winter to summer (since warm air rises and cold air falls). This will help you maintain a uniform temperature throughout the house. In addition, you should change the air filters monthly because they move a large volume of air. A new filter prevents damage to the heat pump, reduces dust, and increases heating and cooling efficiency in your property. Changing your filter regularly will reduce your utility costs. Repair expenses due to clogged filters are charged to you.
Heat pumps are most efficient when you select a comfortable temperature and leave the thermostat in that setting. Adjusting up and down uses more energy than allowing the unit to regulate a preset temperature. Output from a heat pump (in heat mode) will only feel lukewarm to you since this air is 80 – 90 degrees, which is lower than your body temperature. The best way to verify a heat pump is working properly is to compare the temperature you have selected (moderate) against the thermometer reading. If there is a large difference between the two (more than 6 degrees) call for service.
Electric furnaces are quite simple in operation. Please remember to clean or change the filter monthly and not to block the return vents with furniture.
Baseboard heat – Never place furniture or any other articles in front of the baseboard heaters. As with any electrical device, first, check fuses and/or breakers when you experience an outage.
Gas / Oil – Many gas furnaces have automatic lighting and no pilot light is required. The gas company technician who connects your service will be able to explain the safe and efficient usage of your gas equipment.
If you have an oil furnace, your lease may require you to purchase oil from a particular company. Oil providers may offer a “budget” or “auto-fill” plan. This helps to ensure that the tank will not run dry as the oil company will automatically fill the tank according to their calculation of seasonal demand. If you elect not to purchase an auto-fill plan and the tank runs dry, you will be responsible for any expenses incurred for cleaning/restarting the unit. If your heat is provided with radiators and one or more remain cold, the lines supplying them may need to be bled of trapped air. Some furnaces have a pilot light (small flame that must remain lit) while others have electronic ignition. Units using a pilot typically have relighting instructions on the furnace so you can safely relight if the pilot goes out. You should familiarize yourself with the pilot relighting procedure before you have a situation that requires it.
EMERGENCY CUT OFF SWITCH – Often mistaken for a light switch, many systems have an emergency cutoff switch located near the furnace. It normally has a red cover plate and is mounted higher than a normal light switch location. If your furnace or air conditioning fails to operate, check the switch first to ensure that it is on. You should also be aware that this switch may control the power circuits for your air conditioning. Unless you have a serious emergency or are specifically told to turn this switch OFF, then leave it ON at all times.
Central Air Conditioning – Easy maintenance. Similar to heat pumps. Change the filter monthly.
Window/Wall A/C Units require periodic removal and cleaning of the filter (by rinsing with water). It is normally located behind the front panel of the unit in a tray.
PLUMBING
GENERAL – Promptly report any leaks, running toilets, dripping faucets, etc. that increase water consumption. Even if due to the failure of a fixture, the Landlord is not responsible to compensate you for excess utility usage. Timely reporting of plumbing problems will minimize costs incurred by you and the Landlord.
It is critically important that you know the location of the main water shutoff valve and how to turn off individual fixtures. Learn the proper procedures for plumbing emergencies before they occur.
Plumbing fixtures should be used with reasonable care. Do not flush paper towels, baby wipes, feminine products, or other such materials down the toilets. Do not pour any grease down the sink drains. The cost to clear lines from such problems will be assessed against you. This may include expenses associated with water damage to the property should overflow occur.
SEPTIC TANKS – Use Rid-X or other similar product periodically (following the recommendations on the packaging) in order to keep drain fields and other components of the system working properly.
DISPOSALS – If the disposal fails to operate, follow these steps:
Call for service if the unit fails to work after performing these steps. You should be aware that you are responsible for plumbing problems caused by excess grease and other foreign material in the plumbing lines. ALWAYS RUN WATER WHILE USING THE DISPOSAL TO PREVENT BUILDUP OF PARTICLES IN THE DRAIN LINE. Grinding a tray of ice periodically helps keep the blades sharp. In addition, running the disposal while draining a full sink of water may help flush the unit of food particles and make it more efficient.
WATER HEATER – If your water heater uses gas, please learn to relight the pilot. (It is similar to the pilot for a gas furnace.) If the unit is electric, check to see if you have a water heater control device installed by your utility company and learn to recognize what the indicators mean. If the water heater fails to provide any hot water, check the breaker. If the tank is leaking, you should contact your property manager, turn off the circuit breaker powering the heater, shut off the water supply valve (normally on top of the heater) by turning clockwise. Take steps to minimize the water damage until a contractor can arrive.
APPLIANCES
Electric Stove – If the stove fails to operate, check the circuit breaker of fuse. If the oven will not turn on, try the broiler to check the upper coil. If neither coil comes on, check the timer. If the timer is activated, reset to manual control. A timer that is active will prevent the oven from working.
Self-cleaning oven – Has a latch on the top of the door and uses extreme heat to clean. Follow instructions on the stove to clean. Do not use any abrasive cleaners on the stove top / oven.
Continuous cleaning ovens – Have a cavity that absorbs grease when heated. The only way to clean the oven is to use it. If additional cleaning is required, most manufacturers recommend wiping with a mild soap and water solution. Because the cavity has a limited capacity to absorb grease, it is suggested that you line the bottom of the oven with heavy duty aluminum foil or a shallow drip pan. DO NOT USE OVEN CLEANERS OR OTHER CHEMICALS ON THE CAVITY, AS THEY WILL PERMANENTLY DAMAGE THE OVEN. Damage of this nature would be assessed against your security deposit.
Refrigerators – Require little in the way of upkeep; however you should keep coils and grate free of dust and other debris. The refrigerator MUST be kept running at all times. DO NOT use sharp instruments to defrost a manual type refrigerator. No-frost models will normally shut off for a period of time each day to perform their defrost function, controlled by an internal timer. Keep seal / gaskets clean and free of mildew. If you must move the refrigerator at any time, exercise extreme caution to avoid damage to the appliance or floor.
Dishwasher – You must run the dishwasher through a complete cycle at least once a week to keep the seals properly lubricated. Failure to do so may damage the dishwasher and result in leaks, for which you would be responsible. Use only dishwasher type detergents.
Washer / Dryer – Washer connection should be checked periodically to ensure that no leaking is occurring. Dryer filters should be cleaned after each use. Dryer vent hose should be free from kinks or other restrictions. Exterior vent should be free of any blockage. Slow drying may indicate inadequate exhaust flow so check vent hose and external vent outlets for restrictions. Equipment should be level to operate properly. Most have legs that screw in / out (up / down) to allow leveling of the appliance. Damage to laundry equipment resulting from misuse or neglect will be your responsibility.
FREEZING WEATHER
During freezing weather, it is your responsibility to take precautions in order to prevent any damage to the property. Although there is no guarantee that you can keep pipes from being damaged by a hard freeze, we offer these guidelines to minimize the chances that damage will occur. Please note that it is not unusual to wait several days for a plumber when the weather is extremely cold. It is prudent to take precautions in order to prevent your pipes from freezing. Failure to do so could leave you responsible for the costs of freeze /water damage.
1. If your house is on a crawl space, ensure that all exterior crawl space vents are completely closed to outside cold air. If operable vents are not installed, you may purchase covers at a home store.
2. Disconnect all hoses from exterior faucets and cover the faucets with a plastic bag or faucet covers available at a home store. If there is a cutoff valve inside the house, turn the water off to the exterior fixtures and leave them open to drain as much as possible.
3. When the temperature is 30 degrees or below, leave the interior door open to your unheated utility room. Leave cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warmed air to circulate around those pipes. At night, leave a small amount of water dripping from all faucets. Frozen pipes can sometimes be thawed using a blow dryer; however, blowtorches or open flames should never be used.
4. If you are away for any length of time during the winter months, leave the heat ON and turn the water OFF, open the faucets and have a friend check the property frequently. If water is turned off, special precautions will have to be taken to keep the water heater from being damaged. We advise you to give this person a point of contact for Renters Warehouse (should a problem arise while you are gone). YOU MAY BE HELD LIABLE FOR THE COST ASSOCIATED WITH DAMAGE DUE TO FROZEN PIPES.
5. If a water line is frozen, keep the water turned off and immediately call Renters Warehouse maintenance. Monitor the affected line to ensure that it does not thaw and leak through a rupture.
MISCELLANEOUS
Smoke Detectors - In accordance with section 55-248.16 and 15.2-922, Code of Virginia, the Tenant is responsible for the reasonable care of the smoke detectors, interim testing and battery replacement, and for providing written notice to the Owner requesting repair of any malfunctioning smoke detector(s). Monthly inspection and testing of the smoke detectors is the responsibility of the Tenant. Removal of batteries or tampering with smoke detectors make you, as a resident, subject to a fine of up to $2000.00 per section 36-106 of the Virginia Building Code.
No wax floors – Please use only products designed to clean and protect the type floor installed.
Fiberglass tubs and sinks – Please use NON-ABRASIVE CLEANSERS ONLY. Use of any abrasive cleanser or pad/sponge will permanently damage the finish and render them impossible to clean thereafter. Damage of this nature would be your responsibility.
Carpets – Should be professionally cleaned as needed during your tenancy to maintain proper appearance and condition. Rental cleaners from the home store and DIY cleaning will not be accepted under any circumstance.
Walls – Small nails and picture hangers in reasonable quantities are acceptable. However, DO NOT use sticky hangars, molly bolts, contact paper or any other type of material or device that will cause permanent damage.
Doors - Do not attach anything to any door, interior or exterior as permanent damage will occur.
Cabinets – As you may be responsible, DO NOT use contact paper to line shelves or drawers. Regarding the exterior appearance, use only the cleaners that are appropriate for your type of cabinet.
Wood Stoves – If there is a wood stove provided in your property, ask about any special instructions. Please use seasoned hardwoods only. Annual cleaning by a qualified professional is essential to prevent damage or a possible chimney fire. A receipt is required.
Kerosene Heaters / Candles – Because they produce odors and soot that can discolor walls and other surfaces; your lease prohibits kerosene heaters. Candles can also produce similar sooty deposits. Any cleaning and painting expenses caused by use of candles or any other soot-producing items will be assessed against you.
Fireplaces – Use seasoned hardwood only. The same requirement for wood stoves is applicable for fireplaces and we require a receipt for cleaning as needed. Please ensure that precautions are taken to protect the surrounding carpet and fixtures from sparks and ash. Avoid low, smoldering fires as they encourage buildup of residues in the flue. IMPORTANT: IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU KEEP A FIRE EXTINGUISHER OF THE PROPER TYPE ON HAND WHENEVER YOU ARE USING A WOOD STOVE OR FIREPLACE.
Ash Disposal – Ashes burn and smolder long after they are removed from stoves and fireplaces. This can cause fires not only in your home, but also in your waste containers. Please observe the following cautions:
- Place ashes in a fire-proof metal container.
- Place the container outside away from all flammable materials.
- Wet ashes down with a garden hose.
- Make sure ashes are cold and/or wait at least 5 days before disposing of ashes in a non-metal waste container.
Exterior – Tenant expressly agrees to keep the lawn, shrubbery and exterior of the Premises in a neat and orderly manner during the entire term of the Lease unless such services are provided. Tenant agrees to keep the gutters cleaned of all foreign matter and to keep the downspouts clean and understands cleaning may be required several times per year. Tenant agrees to trim all shrubbery at approximately the same height it was upon taking possession. Tenant agrees to weed all flower beds throughout the growing season to present a neat and orderly appearance. Examine the exterior of the house periodically and advise Renters Warehouse of any concerns. Use extreme caution with barbecue grills and fuel cylinders. Grills placed too close to vinyl siding will deform and melt the siding, an expensive repair that would be chargeable to you.
Crawl Space Vents – Please ensure all crawl space vents are open in the summer and closed in the winter. This helps promote evaporation of excess moisture (during the summer) and minimize the possibility of frozen pipes (during the winter). If any vents fail to operate or you have a problem with the crawl space access panel, please notify your property manager.
Attics – If the attic is not floored, it is not safe to walk-in attic spaces. The sheetrock between the ceiling joists will not support your weight or the weight of storage boxes. Any damage to the attic or areas below it (as well as any injury to you or others) as a result of improper storage or unsafe use will be your responsibility.
Lawn Care
Proper care of the lawn on your rental home is your responsibility unless the lease specifically states otherwise. Mowing, edging, trimming, mulching and periodic trimming shrubs etc., should be accomplished as needed and to keep with community standards. Any changes in plantings or landscaping layout will require written authorization from the Landlord.
A sound watering program is an integral component in establishing and maintaining a healthy lawn. Watering too much or too little can cause damage to the lawn and plants. Please adhere to the following guidelines in caring for the lawn and ornamental plants at your rental home.
- Always water in the early morning hours. This provides for minimal evaporation and prevention of fungus growth.
- The local climate calls for 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Set automatic sprinklers for 20-30 minutes on each area and 10-20 minutes on shrubs.
- Water every 3rd day during summer months and once per week during cooler spring and fall months. Water as needed during winter months.
- Hand watering should be 30-60 minutes each area or until you see run off.
- Avoid frequent short-duration watering as this promotes shallow root growth and weakens the lawns resistance to periods of dry or cold weather.
MOLD PREVENTION
Tenant will use reasonable efforts to maintain the dwelling unit and any other part of the premises that he occupies in such a condition as to prevent accumulation of moisture and the growth of mold, and to promptly notify the landlord of any moisture accumulation that occurs or of any visible evidence of mold discovered by the tenant; see mold addendum to lease.