Tenant Frequently Asked Questions

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Here you can find answers to some frequently asked tenant questions about our services. We want you to have all the information you need, so you can better understand our policies and procedures.

Where can I get a list of your properties for rent?

You will find a list of our properties for rent at our website.

How can I view the inside of one of the rentals?

The first step to seeing one of our rentals is to drive by the property to see if it is in a location that is suitable for you. If the property is occupied, please do not disturb the current resident. Once you have driven by the property, you can contact the leasing agent to schedule an appointment to view the property.

Do you require an application fee?

Yes. Each adult who intends to live in the rental property must complete and submit a separate rental application. The cost for processing the application is $40 per adult.

What are the criteria used for approving an application?

When you submit a rental application you are allowing us to perform a background search. We are attempting to determine the likelihood of your paying the rent on time, and whether you will take proper care of the property and fulfill your lease obligations. The three main factors we consider are your credit report, landlord/mortgage history, and your employment and income verifications. While your credit does not have to be spotless, it is important that you do not show a pattern of paying your bills late or not at all. For more detailed information, please review our qualification requirements.

Does monthly income need to be 3 times the rent for Section 8 applicants?

Pursuant to California Government Code Section 12955(o), for applicants with rental vouchers or subsidies, the income threshold will be calculated based on the amount of rent that will be paid by the tenant (not the entire rent amount). We will consider all verifiable sources of income.

Do you accept co-signers?

No, it is our policy to not accept any co-signers.

Do you require a security deposit?

Yes. We require our residents to pay the security deposit once the application is approved and before the tenancy begins. In general, the security deposit will be equal to one month’s rent, rounded up to the nearest hundred.

Do you require a lease?

Yes. We require a written lease agreement on each of the properties that we manage. Our normal lease period is one year.

How is a lease terminated?

At the end of the lease, or beyond, you may usually terminate the lease by giving APM a thirty-day advance written notice to vacate prior to moving.

What if I need to move before the lease expires?

You should notify us in writing of your intent to move with a notice to vacate. We will make every effort to mitigate potential loss by trying to rent the home as soon as possible. You will be held responsible for paying the rent through the end of your lease term or until the home is rented (whichever occurs first), plus you will be held responsible for any necessary painting costs, and leasing fees incurred by the property owner.

What happens if only one roommate wants to move out?

If your roommate moves out, a written notice must be submitted to APM. Remember that tenants are jointly and severally liable to ensure that the rent is paid. You must have written permission from APM to substitute a roommate. (It is not the responsibility of APM to arbitrate or mediate problems between multiple co-tenants.) Security deposit reimbursements to departing roommates are handled by the remaining tenants. No portion of the security deposit will be refunded individually.

Can I sub-lease the property?

No. The lease agreement clearly states that the resident shall not sublet any portion of the property or assign the agreement without written consent from APM.

Can the landlord force me to move during my lease?

No. The landlord cannot evict you from the home unless you breach the lease agreement that you sign. Even if the owner needs to move back in to the property, or sell the property to a buyer, your lease will be honored through the expiration date.

Do you accept pets?

Policies on pets vary according to the property owner. Please refer to the rental advertisement to determine if pets are allowed. We use a third-party pet screening service to process each prospective animal. If you own a pet or animal please use this link to submit a separate application for each pet or animal (Click Here).

Can I get a pet after I move into the property?

Not usually. For more information, please refer to your rental agreement or contact your property manager.

Can I install cable or satellite TV at the property?

Generally yes. However, you must first obtain written permission from APM. At some properties, you may be prohibited from installing a satellite dish in any location where the dish is visible from the ground or from any other unit in the complex. Any cost of installation (or damaged caused by the installation) will be an expense of the resident. Satellite dishes may not be installed on the roof.

Can I paint or modify something in my rental property?

No. Unless you receive written permission from APM prior to making a change, you may not alter the property in any way. If you desire to alter the property you should submit your request in writing, and wait until you receive written consent before making alterations.

How do I report a maintenance problem?

To report maintenance during regular business hours, you may call us at (925) 831-8900, or simply complete a maintenance request online. If you require emergency service, please call our 24-hour emergency response system at (925) 831-8900 and listen for instructions to report a maintenance emergency. For fire, gas or natural disasters, dial 911 before calling us!

What is considered an emergency?

Examples of emergencies are active water leaks, flooding, sewer backups, sparks from appliances, gas odors, fire, etc.

Can I be charged for maintenance at the property?

Yes, if resident damage or neglect causes the maintenance problem, you will be charged for it. Also, you may be billed for a service call if you miss a scheduled appointment with one of our service technicians.

Should I purchase my own policy of renters insurance?

Yes, it is highly recommended that all residents carry enough insurance to cover themselves and their personal property. Please consult with your insurance agent for specific details.

This my first time paying rent late. Can you waive my late fee?

No. APM does not waive late fees. Fair Housing laws require that we treat all our residents equally. APM does not decide if one resident is more deserving than another of paying late fees. We enforce late fees across the board.

What is the move out procedure to get back my security deposit?

If you are terminating the tenancy, you must give APM at least a thirty-day advance notice to vacate in writing, unless a different notice period was agreed to in the Lease or Rental Agreement (please refer to your Lease or Rental Agreement). Please contact APM a few days prior to vacating the premises, to schedule a walk-through appointment. On the date of the walk-through, the premises should be completely vacated, clean, and ready for occupancy with no personal property remaining at the premises. You may also contact APM to request an initial inspection of the premises before you vacate, which you may attend. The purpose of this inspection is to allow you an opportunity to remedy identified deficiencies in order to avoid deductions from the security deposit. Deductions are normally for rent that is due, necessary cleaning of the premises, and damages above normal wear and tear. Rent is usually charged up to the date that you deliver possession of the premises to our office. This is usually the walk-through date.

When can I expect to receive my security deposit refund?

Within 3 weeks after you vacate the premises, you will be provided with an itemized disposition of your security deposit, along with any refund due.

If we have not answered your question, please email us at: info@apmproperties.com