Tenant's Frequently Asked Questions

Is rental insurance a requirement to rent a property?

Although not required in most cases, it is HIGHLY recommended. The landlords insurance will not cover a tenants personal possessions. If the home were to experience fire, flood, or other significant damage, the tenant could suffer a significant loose. Tenant insurance is cheap and easy to obtain. Also, there are some insurance companies who will insure an aggressive breed dog.

When is rent due?

Rent must be pre-paid prior to moving in, and is generally due on the first of the month thereafter. Under certain circumstances rent may be assessed on the 15th.

Where do I pay my rent?

For your convenience, we have 3 ways for you to make your monthly rent payments. They are listed below in their order of popularity.

1. ACH (automatic withdrawal)
When you sign your lease, you will be given the opportunity to complete a form which authorizes RE/MAX Central Realty to automatically withdrawal your rent payment directly from your bank account. If you do not sign up for this service at the beginning of your lease, but wish to switch, please contact us.

2. By check or money order via regular mail
When paying in this manner, it is imperative that you mail the check 2-3 days prior to the 1st. Otherwise it may be received late which could cause the tenant to incur late fees.

3. By check or money order via hand delivery
You may hand deliver your rent payment during normal office hours or use the Dropbox afterhours.

When is rent considered late?

Rent is considered late after the 4th day it is due (first of the month).

Can my landlord increase the rent at any time?

Any increases in rent would have to be outlined in your lease. In most cases, there are no increases during the normal term of the lease.

Can I withhold rent because the landlord is not maintaining the premises?

No, withholding rent would put you in default of the lease. However, at RE/MAX Central Realty we pride ourselves in maintaining a high level of tenant satisfaction by striving to avoid a situation where you would feel it necessary to consider that option.

Is there a penalty/fee if the rent is late?

Yes, late fees are assessed as defined in your lease

Can the landlord charge a fee if a tenant’s rent check is returned because of insufficient funds?

Yes, returned checks are subject to NSF fees as defined in your lease. If a payment is returned due to NSF, it is then also likely to also be late and subject to additional fees as defined in your lease. It pays to pay on time!

Leases

How long is the lease?

Most landlords prefer a minimum of 1 year. Any exceptions will be noted on the property listing.

Can a termination notice be verbal?

The term of the lease is defined in your lease; any change of any term must be in writing.

Should all roommates sign the lease?

Any occupant of the property that is 18yrs or older MUST complete an application to be included on the lease, and must also sign the lease.

What are the procedures if I decide to have a roommate at a later time

All roommates or other occupants must be approved by the landlord. Contact our office for a tenant application and further instructions.

Are there any noise level restrictions?

If you are renting a property that is secluded or out in the country and we receive complaints from the neighboring wildlife (IE: bears, deer, and night owls), you will be asked to turn it down and be more respectful of your neighbors. The same goes for properties in more densely populated areas. Excessive noise can be a violation of city/county ordinances, HOA or Condo Associations, and of your lease.

Can I get keys to the home early?

You may not take possession, nor have keys to the property until the commencement date of the lease.

Can the landlord limit the number of guests at my rental property?

Yes, in addition to the landlord, some cities, counties, &/or HOA’s have laws, rules or regulations that address this issue. Consult your leasing agent for details.

Can I review my rental statement with your company?

Yes, we have an on-line tenant portal which allows you to review your tenant statement at anytime.

May the property be altered (painted, etc.)?

Tenants may not alter the property without prior written approval from the landlord. With regards to paint, minor changes may be made to the interior, however the tenant will be responsible for returning the paint colors to their original condition at the end of the lease.

Deposits

How much is the deposit?

Typically, the same as one months’ rent. However, there are times when some landlords require higher security deposits due to features of the home or tenant history.

How and when is the deposit refunded?

This issue is regulated by Florida Statute 83.49 (3)(a)- (3)(c).

In general, if no claim is being made against the deposit, it must be mailed within 15 days upon the vacating of the premises or termination of the lease. If it is determined that a claim against your deposit is to be made, you will be notified within 30 days of the vacating of the premises or termination of the lease.

What happens to my deposit while I’m living at the property?

If the property is being managed by RE/MAX Central Realty, the deposit held in a non-interest bearing trust account. The name and address of the bank will be on your lease.

Pets

Am I allowed to have pets?

This depends on the landlord’s preference which is usually posted on the property listings.

If I don’t have a pet now, can I add one at a later date, and will my lease change

Yes, if the landlord originally allowed for pets then you can add a pet to your lease. All pets must be approved prior to occupying the property. Failure to properly request permission could be considered a violation of the lease by the tenant. Tenant must first complete a pet application and have your pet approved. If the application is approved, a Pet Addendum will be added to your lease. Only after this procedure is completed may your pet move in.

Is there an additional charge for having pets?

Yes, pet deposits are generally $250/pet but may vary based on individual landlord requirements. Tenants are required to complete a pet application in addition to the tenant application. In addition, all pets must have a veterinarian’s certification (form available on line) and a pre-occupancy interview. The pre-occupancy interview consists of meeting with the leasing agent so they may take a photo of your pet and confirm the veterinarian’s certification. No pets are allowed with-out prior approval.

Maintenance

How are maintenance concerns handled?

Non-emergency maintenance request must be made in writing. 

What is the procedure to report problems or concerns?

For the benefit of all, we request that reports be made in writing. You may also fax, mail, or hand deliver written notes and letters.

What is the turn-around time for getting a maintenance problem corrected?

This depends on the severity of the problem. Most issues are minor and can be dealt with in a matter of a few days. Some larger issues may require multiple bids and owner approval prior to commencing. In all cases we attempt to resolve the issue as quickly and with as little disturbance of the tenant as possible.

How do I report a maintenance emergency?

A – In case of fire or if you are in danger, dial 911. Once you are safe, call our 24hr emergency line and leave the following information:

• your name
• property address
• the phone number at which we can reach you
• nature of the emergency
• time of call

Our On-Call staff will be notified and return your call promptly. NOTE: Although inconvenient and uncomfortable, loss of a/c is not considered a maintenance emergency. Even our a/c breaks down at night sometimes, and we do not make emergency repairs then either.

Can I do repairs to the home and deduct the amount from my rent?

No. We only used properly licensed and ensured vendors. All repairs must be ordered and performed exclusively upon our direction.

Can I change the locks after I move in?

As with any alteration, you must first obtain written approval from the landlord. Once approved, you must provide the landlord with a copy of any and all keys that were changed.

Utilities

Does the rent amount include utilities?

In most cases no, utilities are the responsibility of the tenant. There are a few exceptions, and they will be noted in your lease.

What is the average cost of utilities?

electric cost will vary significantly based on the square footage of the house, the age of the house, your preferred temperature setting (for heat or a/c), and the exposure to the sun. IE: lots of shade trees = less power to cool. You personally also have a lot of influence over your water, gas, and other utilities based on personal use.

NOTE: Many utility companies will tell you what the typical usage is if you call and give them the property address. View Central Florida utility companies.