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Resident Handbook

We want to make your home with us comfortable and enjoyable. A pleasant living experience in a new area is based on cooperation, consideration, and understanding by you and your neighbors.

The purpose of this handbook and set of house rules is to familiarize you with your new home and surroundings, to help you understand more clearly your responsibilities as a resident, and to explain what you can expect from our staff at Thies & Talle Management, Inc. Please read this handbook and the house rules carefully and keep it available for easy reference when you are in doubt about policies. Non-compliance with these rules may result in you owing additional amounts to management and may be grounds for termination of your lease agreement.

Different apartment and townhome communities have different facilities and amenities. Additional rules and policies may be posted by management in community rooms, laundry areas, or other common areas. These rules may be changed from time to time and must, where they apply, be followed.

Thies & Talle Management, Inc. is the management agent for the owners and is authorized to accept service of process and to receive and give receipts for notices and demands. Our staff is experienced and able to help you with any problem that may arise in your home. Please feel free to stop by the office for a visit or call if you have any questions.

Moving In

Rent Payment

Rent is due on or before the first day of each month. No future-dated checks will be accepted.

Please make the check or money order payable to the name of your apartment community and insert into the rent deposit box or give to appropriate office personnel. Credit cards and online payments are also accepted, as well as automated bank debits. To ensure proper credit, make sure your apartment number is indicated on the check. Rents mailed in should be sent to the office address. Payments received after the tenth day of the month must be in cashier’s check or money order.

Rents not received in the rent deposit box by 5:00 p.m. on the 5th of the month will be considered late and late fees will be charged accordingly. ALL payments made after the 10th MUST be in money order or by credit card ONLY.

By paying your rent by check, please be aware that you are authorizing the property to use the information on your check to make a one-time electronic payment from your checking account. The electronic payment will be for the amount indicated on your check and may be withdrawn from your bank account as soon as the same day the payment is received. Please note that your check will not be returned by the financial institution but will instead appear under the “electronic items” section on your bank statement. If you have any questions, or choose not to have your check converted into an electronic document, please contact the management office.

If your check is returned from the bank, or dishonored for any reason, the standard late fee provided in your lease will be added to your account. You will also be charged a service fee of $30.00, unless otherwise stated in your lease. If any household has two (2) returned checks during the course of residency, all payments from there forward must be made in money order or credit card form only.

Your Lease

The lease is a contract obligating all parties to the terms and conditions listed. On the day you and management sign your lease, you are given a copy. Please read through it carefully and ask the management staff about anything that you do not understand. This handbook along with all other addendums are considered part of your lease. Please note that you are required to give written notice to vacate within the proper notice period stated in your lease. You cannot just move, even when the initial term of your lease ends, without giving proper written notice.

Moving In

Individuals moving personal property into the building must do so between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Controlled access doors are not to be propped open. Building entry doors, and interior fire doors, may not be left open unless there is a responsible person actively monitoring the door. Doors are to be kept closed when not in actual use for moving to prevent access by pets, rodents, animals, and waste of building utilities. Violators will be charged a $25.00 violation fee, unless otherwise stated in your lease. Vehicles and carts or moving dollies may not be parked or moved across the grounds. Any damage done to building grounds by moving equipment, or any vehicle, will be charged to you and this is a violation of your lease.

Occupancy

Individuals, other than those named on your lease, that are living or regularly staying at your unit are prohibited. This is a violation of your lease. Residents may not allow other persons to use their apartment, or the premises, or receive mail, packages, or other purposes without Management’s prior written consent. To comply with Thies & Talle’s occupancy policy, guests may not stay longer than three days within any 10-day period. If you expect to have guests stay with you longer, you must notify the office and get prior approval.

Your lease prohibits any business use and any subletting. Residents are expected to have guests that are social and familial acquaintances, but no sharing, barter or subletting of the apartment (no Airbnb or similar) for any consideration is permitted. Evidence that mail or any package has been received at the property by a person not named as an authorized resident or occupant on your lease is a breach of your lease. Management reserves the right to give any mail or package carrier direction to refuse to provide delivery service to any recipient name that is not an authorized resident or approved guest or occupant. Only persons identified as residents on the lease shall be issued certificates of rent paid per Minnesota statutes. If there will be a change in your household, please notify the office before the change occurs. Children born, adopted, or placed with your household during the lease term should be added to your lease. Please notify management of any additional person, including newborn children.

If one member of a household wishes to move, you must notify the office for approval. If the household is in good standing, and any remaining residents have sufficient income and credit to qualify the remaining resident to be approved as the lease holder without the credit and income of the departing roommate, the roommate may be released from the lease. However, a Release of Liability and Security Deposit form must be completed prior to a roommate moving off the premises. This form must be signed and dated by all roommates. Potential new roommates are required to complete our standard application process and be approved by management PRIOR to moving into the apartment. If one member of the household moves but others remain, the security deposit will stay with the unit until the lease terminates and the unit is vacated. Roommates agreeing to household changes or the departure of a roommate are expected to make arrangements, at the time the roommate moves, to handle the security deposit amongst themselves. Management is never obligated to return, or account for deductions from, the deposit until the Lease is terminated with proper notice and the unit has been vacated.

Move-In Inspection Report

Prior to occupying your new apartment, a move-in inspection report stating the condition of your apartment will be completed by yourself and a member of the management staff. At this time, any deficiencies will be noted and placed in your file. This report will provide a written record of noted items and is aimed at avoiding any misunderstandings at the time of move out. The statements of condition on the move-in report made by any single member of the resident’s household will be binding on all residents.

Security Desclaimer

Management does not provide, guarantee, or warrant security. Management does not represent that your unit or the rental community is safe from criminal activities by other residents or third parties. Residents are responsible for their own personal security and that of their household, children, and property. If you observe any suspicious activity or potentially unsafe conditions, please notify management. If illegal, immediately dangerous or unsafe conditions are observed, or if a potential crime is suspected, call 911 first.

Controlled Access and Safety

Because safety is an important aspect of rental housing, all residents are expected to exercise common sense in and about the premises. Post local police and fire department numbers, as well as other emergency medical numbers, near your telephone and familiarize members of your household and your family with the safety features of the premises and the location to go for severe weather warnings.

Residents are required to keep individual unit doors closed and doors should be locked at all times. Never open the door to your apartment to any person you do not know.

Most of the properties operated by Thies & Talle Management have a controlled access door system. It is prohibited to give any person who is not an authorized resident on your lease, or an approved authorized occupant, a key or access materials to the building or your apartment. When coming and going from the building, do not allow any person access to the building with you. Even persons you might recognize as guests of another household might not be welcome guests on any given day. If you are uncomfortable stopping or preventing a person from following you into the building, please notify management as promptly as possible after the entry occurs.

Renter's Insurance

Management carries casualty insurance on the building where you live. Please note that this policy does not cover any loss or damage to your personal possessions, or your loss of use, temporary lodging, or moving costs, if your apartment or personal property is damaged by any casualty. If you, or one of your guests, is injured at your apartment, management’s insurance may not provide medical expenses or damages. If you are sued for any accident or injury, caused by you or any member of your household, or any animal you own, management’s insurance will not pay to defend you or pay any damages you owe.

Residents, their household members, children, or animals, that cause accidents or damage to the property, such as water damage caused from a tub overflowing, leaving a window open and allowing pipes to freeze, or fire or smoke damage caused by resident accident or inattention, may result in you owing money to Management, and other residents, for the damage you cause. A renter’s insurance policy will provide liability coverage to protect you against such accidents. Without such insurance, you will be responsible under your Lease for damages to the building, to Management and other residents.

Reasonably priced insurance policies are available from many insurance agencies. These policies can provide coverage to you for damages to your property, loss of use and moving expenses, and defense and liability coverage. Residents are strongly encouraged to obtain “renter’s insurance” or similar insurance coverage to protect their personal property and persons against loss, damages, injuries, and casualty.

NOTE: Residents with waterbeds must provide a copy of their insurance policy naming the apartment community as an additional insured.

Telephone/Entryway System (If Applicable)

Upon installation of your telephone, please inform the office of your new telephone number so that it can be programmed into the entry system. Management does not warrant that any building entry system will be compatible with the individual phone or service that any resident may have.

Names of residents will not be released to anyone without specific instructions to the management.

Although we do not wish to be inhospitable, we cannot assume the responsibility of determining at face value who would or would not be welcomed by a resident.

Instructions for using the entryway system were included in your move-in packet. Please let our office staff know if you require an additional copy.

Keys and Locks

Keys to the entrance door, apartment, storage locker (if applicable), and mailbox, as well as any parking/garage items, will be distributed to the resident. All keys are to be returned to the office upon vacating the apartment. There is a $35.00 minimum charge for each item not returned or reported lost or stolen, unless otherwise stated in your lease. Building and apartment keys may not be duplicated or given to non-leaseholders. If you need an additional copy of a key for another reason, please contact the management office.

State and local fire codes prohibit the installation of separate keyed locking devices on apartment entry doors other than those that are approved/installed by the management staff. Residents are not permitted to alter any lock or other attachments (chains or bolts) on the door or mailbox. No alarm, security, or home monitoring system may be installed or used without management’s prior advance consent.

Packages

As a courtesy, management may accept mail or packages on the resident’s behalf in the office. The resident will be informed of any packages and must pick them up within 48 hours of notification. Management is not responsible for any lost or damaged packages.

Residents are warned and advised that any valuable or confidential mail or package, high value item, confidential financial or medical information, prescription drugs, or similar mail or parcel you expect to be delivered to you should be sent with strict instructions by you to not be delivered unless you can personally receive and sign for the mail or package. Management is not responsible or liable for any delivery of mail or packages left by the USPS, or any carrier service, in the management office.

Maintenance

Maintenance Service Requests

To request maintenance, please notify the office and indicate the item that needs to be repaired or replaced. If the office is closed, please place your written request in the office drop box. Our goal is to provide 24-hour or next business day service, parts permitting.

Please note that by placing a work request with the office, you are granting consent for maintenance and are receiving notice that entry to your apartment will occur for maintenance purposes whether or not you are home. If your schedule presents a conflict (need to call first, only after a certain time, etc.), please let maintenance or the office know the time frame that the work order can be completed.

Generally, there is no charge for repairs and maintenance. However, if the repair is deemed to be misuse (including failure to follow the rules and guidelines of this handbook) or beyond normal wear and tear, the resident will be assessed the cost of repair, parts and labor.

Unit Inspections

  • Preventive Maintenance

    Management endeavors to conduct preventive maintenance inspections twice a year. The smoke detector, plumbing, and electrical will be checked. The general condition of the carpet, vinyl, and apartment will be noted. This is a good time for you to bring any maintenance or service requests to management’s attention. Any repairs that are noted will be either (a) addressed and repaired at that time, or (b) scheduled for a future date. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

  • Lease Compliance

    Periodic inspections are also conducted to determine that resident households are in compliance with the terms of the lease and the provisions of this resident handbook. Any deficiencies noted in an inspection with regard to housekeeping, sanitation, or care and maintenance of the unit in accordance with this handbook may be a basis for noting deficiencies that residents must correct, or for lease enforcement up to and including termination of lease, eviction, or non-renewal. If deficiencies are noted in the conditions of any unit, management reserves the right to conduct re-inspections in addition to taking action to enforce the lease and/or terminate the lease. Failure to cooperate with management’s inspection program is a breach of your lease and these rules.

  • City and State Housing Authorities/HUD Inspection (If Applicable)

    Based on local and state housing or code requirements, your apartment may be inspected periodically by a local or state housing agency/HUD officer, or local code official, including a staff representative, the Thies & Talle property manager, and the maintenance personnel. This inspection is to ensure that the management company, as well as the apartment complex staff, is maintaining the property.

  • Pre-Move Out Inspection

    During the notice period, after resident or management has given notice to vacate, management shall be entitled to conduct a pre-move out inspection for purposes of determining any items of repair, maintenance, or potential renovations or replacements that might be necessary in the apartment to ready the apartment for a future tenant. At individual properties, management may allow or make arrangements with residents, on their vacate date, to conduct a move out inspection and advise residents of any additional cleaning, or damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, or charges for replacement, that may be assessed against resident on resident’s security deposit. Management is not obligated to allow resident to participate in a move out inspection, and move out inspections may not be offered or available at some rental communities, or based on management’s availability and scheduling during end-of-the-month move out times.

Emergency Maintenance

Maintenance After Hours

We have staff available to respond to emergency maintenance issues after our management offices are closed. If you call the office phone number, you can either be transferred to an answering service or the voicemail recording will give you a number to call for assistance.

Lack of any working toilet, loss of heat in the winter, a non-cooling refrigerator, a non-functioning smoke detector or any active water leak will be considered an emergency that needs to be responded to after hours.

Regular maintenance requests can also be submitted after hours either through the resident portal (if available at your property), speaking to the answering service (if available at your property) or leaving a message on the management office voicemail.

To report a fire or life-threatening condition or injury, please dial 911.

After Hours Lockouts

Resident(s) who require lockout assistance after regular office hours will be charged a fee of $30.00 that is due with the following month’s rent, unless otherwise stated in your lease.

For identity verification, our staff may require current photo identification listing your apartment as your permanent address before giving access to the apartment.

After Hours Noise or Disturbance Complaints

Residents are encouraged to handle complaints about noise or other disturbances between themselves. However, when resident communication breaks down, please notify management while the noise or disturbance is occurring (or leave a message if it is after hours). If the noise or disturbance is extremely loud, does not cease, or is of an emergency nature, please contact the police and also leave a voicemail with the office so that we may follow up the next business day. Your name, telephone and apartment numbers must be provided so the on-call person can contact you directly for more information.

Fire Safety

If you see or smell smoke, immediately call 911. Please respond to all alarms. Access permitting, you can determine the urgency of the situation by going to the front lobby.

Severe Weather

In the event of severe weather, residents may seek shelter in the underground garage, if available. Do not go to a common area that has a large number of windows!

In the event of a power loss, the back-up lighting is only good for approximately 30 minutes. It is advisable to carry a flashlight and a radio with you.

General Building Rules

Safety and Common Areas

This building is only as safe as you make it. Close and lock your doors at all times. Outside doors to the building and garage must remain closed and secure. Any patio or balcony door should be kept locked and secured when you are in the unit unless the patio or balcony is in use. Patio doors are not designed or intended to be used in lieu of building or apartment entrance doors. Patio doors should always be secured and locked when you are not home and/or are not using the patio or balcony. Do not allow strangers or residents’ guests access to the building while you are entering or leaving the building. If you see any activity or loitering that looks suspicious, please contact the office, the police, or call 911 at once.

Bicycles, toys and other personal property must not be left on the grass, sidewalks, and stairways, or in the hallways. Building and fire codes prohibit leaving any personal property, including items like rugs, boot trays, or shoes, in common area hallways. Management is not responsible for any lost, stolen or broken items.

It is not acceptable to loiter, or to obstruct sidewalks, stairways, hallways or general access areas. Hallways and common areas are for people coming and going into the building. Loitering, blocking these areas, or having conversations or making noise that unreasonably interferes with the use or enjoyment of an adjoining apartment is a breach of your lease agreement.

For insurance reasons and for your protection, ALL common areas, including the garage, may not be used as recreational areas. Biking, skating, boarding and/or rollerblading are not permitted in the parking lot, garage or other common areas. Management may restrict recreational activities and play areas to portions of the community that do not disturb other residents, or are not unreasonably close to occupied units, or to otherwise protect the property’s landscaping and grounds.

Residents may not post any signs or notices, or solicit any other resident of the property or management agents, without management’s prior written consent. Some communities may provide a community notice board for general resident information, but any sign or notice placed on a community board may require management’s advance consent and approval. Any notice boards are the property of management and management has the sole discretion to remove any sign or notice placed on a community notice board. Except as required by state statute and election law access, door-to-door solicitors or salesmen are not allowed into the building under any circumstances.

Trespass List

In an effort to prevent any unauthorized persons on the property, we follow the guidelines below regarding trespass notices.

Management and law enforcement officers may question any person in any common area of any building or parking lot or any public area for any reason or for no reason. Persons questioned may be asked to show identification. Any person who cannot show that they are a resident or a guest of a resident may be escorted off the property. Any person who is not a current resident who violates the lease agreement, resident handbook, or posted notices may be placed on management’s trespass list. Management also reserves the right to exclude residents, visitors or guests if such guest is reasonably believed to pose a danger to the health, safety, morals, or quiet enjoyment of the property or employees. A person that previously lived at the property, or was an unauthorized occupant or visitor, or a person where management is advised by local law enforcement officers to take action and to exclude such person, may be placed on management’s trespass list. Any person who refuses to show identification or who falsely identifies themselves may also be placed on management’s trespass list. Persons who are on management's trespass list will be banned from the property.

If management has determined for any of the reasons shown above that a person should be excluded from the rental community, residents agree to and must cooperate with management to advise the trespassed person that the person is not welcome to visit or come to the rental property to see or visit resident, that such person is no longer welcome as a visitor or guest in resident’s unit, and to cooperate with and notify management if such person or visitor does come to the property or attempts to enter resident’s unit. A failure by resident to cooperate with management to exclude persons that are on management’s trespass list will be considered a material violation of lease and other good cause for lease termination.

Persons who wish that their names be removed from the trespass list must provide a written request for this consideration. The regional property manager is the only person authorized to remove an individual's name from the trespass list. Such an approved authorization to be removed from the trespass list will be in writing; no verbal permission will be considered authorized or valid. The minimum active time on the trespass list will be six (6) months. At the end of the six (6) months and upon written notification that the person wishes to have their name removed from the trespass list, management will review the incident(s) that caused the person to be placed on the trespass list. Depending on the nature of the incident and providing that the person has not violated the policy by coming onto the property during the previous six (6) months, management may grant written permission to remove person from the trespass list.

  1. If the person requesting to be removed from the trespass list is denied, he/she may request another review at the end of an additional three (3) month period.
  2. In cases where an individual was convicted of a felony crime, or where damage to the property resulted, or where another individual was caused bodily harm, the person will remain on the trespass list indefinitely.
  3. In an effort to accommodate residents who have relatives on the trespass list, the following shall apply:
    1. If a resident wishes to have a relative who is on the trespass list present for a special occasion, the resident may contact management prior to the date of the occasion to request special permission be given for the person to be here at a set date and time. This permission will be in writing and no verbal permission shall be granted or valid.
    2. If a person who is on the trespass list has a special need, such as a family emergency, to see a resident, that person may contact management to request permission to come onto the property. If such an emergency situation occurs after hours, they may contact a law enforcement officer who will then contact the regional property manager.
  4. When a person is placed on management’s trespass list, management will send a written notice of trespass advisory to all residents who may be an acquaintance of the person who is on the trespass list. If management later learns that the person on the trespass list visits other residents, management will send a written notice of trespass advisory to those residents also.
  5. Any resident who is notified that a person is on management’s trespass list and who then allows that person access to the resident’s unit, or any portion of the property, will have violated management’s trespass advisory. Violation of trespass advisory shall constitute material non-compliance with the terms of the lease and shall be a basis for termination of tenancy. It is understood and agreed that a single violation shall be a basis for termination of the lease.

Election Year Information

Per Minnesota Statute: 211B.20, political candidates are allowed access to any multi-unit dwelling. Please refer any potential candidates to the office prior to gaining access to the building.

Extended Absence

In the event you are going to be gone for longer than ten days, please inform the management office of your absence and also place your newspaper and mail delivery on hold. If you will be away during the winter months you are required to make sure that all of your windows are closed and enough heat is running in your apartment to maintain a temperature of at least 55 degrees. This is necessary in order to prevent the pipes in your unit from freezing. If you have a car parked in an outside parking lot while you are away during the winter months, you need to make arrangements with someone to move your vehicle in case it needs to be moved for snow removal after a snowfall.

Residents are responsible to make arrangements to have building postings and notices to apartment monitored that relate to the need to move vehicles in the parking area for snow removal or parking maintenance, or to receive other notices that might relate to repairs, inspections, or to allow access to the unit for repairs, maintenance, service, or extermination procedures. Failure to give management notice of an extended absence, and to have someone available to monitor notices, is a breach of the lease.

Management will not allow entrance of any person not listed on your lease into your apartment for any reason without your written consent provided at least 24 hours in advance.

At subsidized properties, the lease requires that the leaseholder occupy the unit. If a resident wishes to leave for more than 60 days (or for more than 180 days due to medical reasons), they must submit a move out notice and vacate their apartment.

Visitors

Friends and relatives are welcome! However, you may not allow anyone to live with you without prior approval from management. Visitors are limited to no more than three days or nights in any ten-day period unless prior authorization from management has been obtained. If you want to have someone else move in with you, that person must first fill out an application at the management office. Management will screen the applicant in the same manner as any new applicant and reserves the right to reject the applicant for occupancy in accordance with the resident selection plan.

Out of courtesy for your neighbors and other residents, all visitors are required to abide by the house rules. It is your responsibility to ensure that these rules are enforced. A resident must accompany guests when using the common area amenities. Loitering is not allowed in these areas.

Residents are responsible for the conduct of their guests. Failure by a resident’s guests to observe these rules could result in an adverse action against the resident ranging from a lease violation notice, eviction, or assessment of charges for loss or damages caused by the resident’s guests.

SMOKE FREE POLICY

1. Purpose of No-Smoking/ Fire Safety Policy. The parties desire to (i) mitigate the irritation and known health effects of secondhand smoke; (ii) mitigate the increased maintenance, cleaning, and redecorating costs from smoking; (iii) mitigate the increased risk of fire from smoking; (iv) mitigate the higher costs of fire insurance for a non-smoke-free building; (v) to improve the enforcement of this Smoke-Free / Fire Safety Addendum and policy by broadly defining and prohibiting any sources of smoke, odors, or fire safety risks whether or not from smoking of a tobacco product or similar, so as to provide a living environment free from smoke odors or particles and reduce fire safety risks from any source; and (vi) prohibit and prevent currently unknown and uncertain adverse health or addiction effects associated with electronic cigarettes.

2. Definitions: Smoking. No “lit” Items. The term “smoking” refers to any use or possession of a cigar, cigarette, e-cigarette, hookah, or vaporizer containing tobacco or a tobacco product while that tobacco product is burning, lighted, vaporized, or ignited, regardless of whether the person using or possessing the product is inhaling or exhaling the smoke from such a product. Smoking also refers to use or possession of burning, lighted, vaporized, or ignited non-tobacco products including but not limited to any lit product that may emit smoke, whether or not inhaled, such as incense, sage, marijuana, including medical cannabis, candles, scented candles, lamps, or lanterns. Resident acknowledges that many tenants choose a smoke-free building because they are very sensitive to any perceived smoke odors or smoke particles. Whether it is burning incense, or some other product, Management need not prove such smoking or burning item is inhaled or is unsafe or unhealthy. If it is a source of smoke, odors or smoke particles that is perceptible to other tenants or could be upsetting to persons that have intentionally chosen to live at a “smoke-free” rental property, it is not permitted under this Addendum. Resident is advised that this Addendum is broadly intended to promote fire safety at the premises in addition to providing a smoke-free living environment. With those goals in mind, all forms of “lit” items, other than a stove burner that is furnished as part of the appliances for the unit, are prohibited. For purposes of this Addendum the definition of smoking shall broadly include anything that is “lit” and could produce any smoke odors, smoke particles, or present a fire safety risk.
Electronic Cigarette or Vaping Devices. The term “electronic cigarette/Vaping Devices” means any electronic device (such as e-cigarettes, e-cigars, and e-pipes, or any vaping device, etc.) that provides a vapor of liquid nicotine or any other substances to the user to simulate smoking, to allow inhalation of a vaporized substance, or to emit smoke or vapor into the air.

3. Smoke-Free Community and Fire Safety. Resident agrees and acknowledges that the premises to be occupied by Resident and members of Resident’s household have been designated as a smoke-free living environment. Smoking as broadly defined herein, is strictly prohibited. Resident and members of Resident’s household shall not smoke anywhere inside the Apartment rented by Resident or the interior of an apartment, including any patios, decks or balconies attached to adjacent to the Premises, or the building where the Resident’s Apartment is located or in any of the common areas including all adjoining grounds, parking areas, green spaces, management leasing office, building interiors and hallways, club house, exercise or spa facility, swimming pools, commercial shops, businesses and spaces, work areas, and outdoor areas of the Apartment Community, nor shall Resident permit any guests or visitors under the control of Resident to do so. Smoking, as broadly defined above, is prohibited in and on all areas of the rental community unless Landlord has specifically designated an outdoor area as a smoking area, although Landlord has no duty or obligation to create or designate any area as a smoking area. Smoking as broadly defined above includes any “lit” or burning item and is prohibited in any portion of the apartment community.

4. Resident to Promote No-Smoking Policy and to Alert Management of Violations. Resident shall inform Resident’s occupants, guests, family, and invitees of the no-smoking policy and for ensuring compliance. Further, Resident shall promptly give Landlord a written statement of any incident where smoke is migrating into the Resident’s Apartment from sources outside of the Resident’s Apartment.

5. Landlord Not a Guarantor of Smoke-Free Environment. Resident acknowledges that Landlord’s adoption of a Smoke-Free/Fire-Safety Policy and Lease Addendum, and the efforts to designate the rental community as smoke-free, do not make Landlord or any of its managing agents the guarantor of Resident’s health or of the smoke-free condition of the Resident’s Apartment and the common areas. There is no warranty or guaranty of any kind that Resident’s Apartment or the Apartment Community is smoke free. Landlord is not required to take steps in response to smoking unless Landlord has actual knowledge of smoking or has been given written, verifiable notice of said smoking.

6. Other Residents are Third-Party Beneficiaries of Resident’s Agreement. Resident agrees that the other Residents at the community are the third-party beneficiaries of Resident’s smoke-free addendum agreements with Landlord. Therefore, Resident’s agreements in this Addendum are made to the other Residents as well as to Landlord. Resident may sue another resident for an injunction to prohibit smoking or for damages, but Resident does not have the right to evict another resident. Any suit between Residents herein shall not create a presumption that Landlord breached this Addendum.

7. Effect of Breach and Right of Landlord to Terminate Lease. Resident agrees and acknowledges that the entire premises to be occupied by Resident and members of Resident’s household, and guests, have been designated as smoke-free and that smoking as defined herein, is expressly prohibited by Resident, members of Resident’s household, and guests. Resident acknowledges that a breach of this Addendum by Resident or Resident’s household members or guests, shall be considered a material breach of lease and grounds for termination of Resident’s lease agreement or other legal action deemed appropriate by Landlord. In the event that Landlord incurs any fees, fines, or other damages as a result of, or in connection with, a violation of this Addendum by Resident or Resident’s household members or guests, and in addition to any other remedies available to Landlord, and without waiving any rights of Landlord hereunder, Landlord may charge Resident for the damages incurred, which damages shall be paid immediately by Resident upon demand by Landlord, and Landlord’s acceptance of such amount from Resident shall not constitute of waive of such violation. Landlord shall not be obligated to commence any court action or avail itself of any remedy for immediate relief of any violation of this Addendum, and Landlord’s failure to do so shall not constitute a waiver of any breach.

8. Resident’s Responsibility for Damages and Cleaning. Resident is responsible for payment of all costs and damages to the Apartment, other resident’s apartments, or any other portion of the Apartment Community for repair, replacement, or cleaning due to smoking, smoke or fire related damage caused by Resident, Resident ‘s household members, guests, or invitees. The definition of Smoking above is intended to promote fire safety and prevent accidents or injuries that could occur due to any lit object such as a candle, incense, or lantern. The lighting of any object or allowing any lit object in the rental unit or otherwise at the property, that results in any fire or smoke damage shall be the strict responsibility and liability of Resident for violations of this Addendum. Any costs or damages incurred by Landlord related to repairs, replacement, and cleaning due to Smoking as defined above by Resident, Resident’s household members, guests, or invitees, or due to violation of the no-smoking provisions of this Addendum and the Lease by Resident, Resident’s household members, guests, or invitees, are in excess of normal wear and tear. Smoke-related damage, including but not limited to, odors, discoloration of walls and carpeting, odors that permeate sheetrock, carpeting, wood, insulation or other components of the Apartment or the Apartment Community is in excess of normal wear and tear. Resident shall be responsible for all costs incurred by Landlord to restore the Apartment, or portions of the Apartment Community, to a smoke-free condition, including the costs of repainting and treating any surfaces of the Apartment and any carpet replacement associated with Resident’s violation of this Addendum.

9. Resident’s Responsibility for Loss of Rental Income and Economic Damages regarding Other Residents. Resident is responsible for payment of all lost rental income or other economic and financial damages or loss to Landlord due to smoking or smoke-related damage caused by Resident, Resident’s household members, guests, or invitees, which results in or causes other residents to be constructively evicted or vacate their apartments, results in disruption of other residents enjoyment, or adversely affects the health, safety, or welfare of other residents. Resident’s responsibility for damages, cleaning, loss of rental income, and loss of other economic damages under this Addendum are in addition to, and not in lieu of, Resident’s responsibility for other damages or loss under the lease contract or any other addendum.

10. Lease Termination for Violation. Landlord has the right to terminate the Lease and Resident’s right to occupancy of the Apartment for any violation of this Addendum. Any violation of the Smoke-Free Lease Addendum is a material and substantial violation of this Addendum and the Lease. Despite the termination of the Lease or eviction from the premises, Resident will remain liable for the rent through the end of the Lease Term.

11. Disclaimer by Landlord. Resident acknowledges that Landlord’s adoption of a smoke-free living environment and the efforts to designate the rental community as smoke-free do not in any way change the standard of care that Landlord or managing agent would have to Resident’s household to render buildings and premises designated as smoke-free any safer, more habitable, or improved in terms of air quality standards than any other rental premises. Landlord specifically disclaims any implied or express warranties that the building, common areas, or Resident’s premises will have any higher or improved air quality standards than any other rental property. Landlord cannot and does not warranty or promise that the rental premises or common areas will be free from secondhand smoke, and Landlord shall not be liable for any personal injuries or property damage caused by secondhand smoke. Resident acknowledges that Landlord’s ability to police, monitor, or enforce the agreements of this Addendum is dependent in significant part on voluntary compliance by Resident and Resident’s guests. Residents with respiratory ailments, allergies, or any other physical or mental condition relating to smoke are put on notice that Landlord does not assume any higher duty of care to enforce this Addendum than any other Landlord obligation under the Lease.

Animals/Pets (If Applicable)

Animal/pet policies vary by apartment community. Please contact your property manager regarding the policy at your community. With minor exceptions, such as small fish tanks, ownership of any animal requires prior written consent and meeting other animal requirements at the applicable rental community. Residents are not permitted to bring animals to the property, or have visiting animals, without management’s prior written consent.

If you live in an apartment where animals/pets are permitted, you must notify the office to register your animal, compile and furnish any required paperwork, and pay any applicable pet deposits and/or pet fees. You are responsible for supervising your animal, complying with any animal rules and the costs of any damages caused by your animal. Any resident complaints of animal odors, noise, or other animal behavior that disturbs other residents will be grounds for management to ask you to get rid of your animal or be in breach of your lease and these house rules. Animals are not allowed in the common areas or grounds of the apartment community other than for entering and exiting the property and in designated areas on a leash.

Disturbances and Excess Traffic

Individual apartments and the apartment community are to be used exclusively for residential purposes. All business and commercial uses are prohibited.

Social and friendly gatherings of residents and their guests are welcome provided that such gatherings do not become boisterous, excessive, or generally objectionable to the other residents. Please be considerate to your neighbors by keeping noise levels down at all times. Residents should be conscious about noise in their unit from musical instruments, vibrations, sound systems, electronic gaming systems, television or other sources that might disturb the rights of other residents to peaceful enjoyment of their homes.

Residents are responsible for their guests’ and families’ actions and conduct at their apartment or in other common areas of the rental community. Any guest or visitor that has caused a disturbance, violated any provision of the lease, resident handbook or posted rules, or been a source of disturbance or harassment to any other resident, staff member, or visitor of another resident, may be subject to a management-issued trespass action (see section above) and will not be permitted to return to the property or the resident’s unit. If the number of guests and visitors is excessive in terms of total number or its tendency to disturb fellow residents, management may ask resident to restrict or limit the number of visitors. Excessive traffic from visitors, visits at unusual hours, visits of short duration, or visitors who leave vehicles running in driveways or parking areas, or other unusual or excessive traffic patterns disturb other residents and constitute a violation of your lease and these house rules.

Resident Civility

Residents and management are expected to treat one another with reasonable standards of civility and courtesy. Management is an equal opportunity, fair housing provider. Any resident that makes statements that are harassing, rude, profane, or discriminatory, or engages in conduct or gestures that would be considered offensive or upsetting to other persons of reasonable sensitivity, or appear to be discriminatory based on any protected class status, are violating management’s policies of equal opportunity and fair housing. Management staff and vendors are also entitled to work in an environment that is free from unreasonable confrontation, discourtesy, profanity or interruption of their duties. Residents that violate these policies will be subject to lease enforcement action up to and including termination of breach of lease or non-renewal.

Community Appearance

This apartment community is your home. Please abide by the following policies to help maintain an attractive and safe environment for you, your household and your neighbors.

Building
  • All entrance ways and hallways to the apartments must be kept clean and free of personal property.Fire safety rules prohibit placing boots, shoes, mats, etc. in the hallways or in front of apartment doors.
  • Smoking is NOT allowed in the common areas, including the garage.
  • Bulletin boards are available for postings.Management reserves the right to remove any items that do not meet our approval.
  • Plants should only use normal soil as potting soil, as fertilizers can be highly flammable and can be a source of spontaneous combustion caused by sunlight.Any plants on patios or balconies should have a tray or protection under the plant to prevent water seeping to lower patios or staining balcony and patio surfaces.
  • Balconies are to be kept clean and free of litter and may not be used as general storage.Only patio furniture and plants are allowed.
  • The use or storage of personal grills of any kind or outdoor cooking devices, such as camp stoves, turkey fryers, smokers, or similar, are prohibited in all areas of the property.Non-compliance with this policy can result in a $25.00 fine and termination of lease.Some of our communities do have property-owned grills available for all residents to use in designated areas of the property.
  • No device with any open flame, whether a torch, fire table, kerosene lamp, or other, is permitted on any patio or balcony.
  • Hanging clothes or other laundry on the balcony is prohibited.

No radio, TV, CB aerials, wires, or satellite dishes may be attached in or about the apartment or common areas. Satellite dishes are subject to special rules and requirements. See the management office before purchasing or installing any satellite dish and refer to your satellite dish addendum agreement.

Grounds/Landscape
  • The lawns should be kept clear of furniture, bicycles, toys and other personal property.
  • Kiddie pools must not be left outside when they are not being supervised by an adult.They can fill up with water and this can pose a hazard to young children at the property.
  • Bird feeders or feeding other outdoor animals is prohibited.
  • Trees, shrubbery and other landscaping materials are a vital and valuable part of the community grounds.You will be liable for damages or any mutilation that is done by any occupant of your apartment and/or your guests.
  • Flammable oils, fluids or materials, such as gasoline, kerosene, explosives, and any other materials deemed dangerous or hazardous shall not be brought into the premises, the building, or stored in any area including garages.

Care of Your Home

Residents should always notify management of any needed repairs. Residents should never attempt to complete a repair on their own. Resident should not attempt to move or relocate any appliances, even for general cleaning, as this can damage flooring or result in disconnection or damage to appliance connections. If you need or want to clean under or around an appliance, please submit a work order to management. Below are general cleaning and care tips and requirements for your apartment.

Plumbing

Do not put the following down sink drains:

  • Grease
  • Drain cleaners
  • Acid
  • Any substance other than liquid
  • Keep strainer basket in place to catch items such as food waste
Plumbing Repairs
  • If you notice a leak from a pipe under the sink, place a bucket or bowl under it to catch the leak and turn off the sink using the shut-off valves located under the sink at the back of the wall and notify management.
  • If you notice leaking from the faucet handles or spout, shut the faucet off completely and notify management.
  • If you notice spraying of water from the faucet, notify management.
  • Do not use an abrasive sponge and/or scrubbing utensils on stainless steel sinks as they will scratch and damage the surface.Clean with a nonabrasive cleaner only.
Toilets

Conventional toilet paper should be the only paper product disposed of down the toilet. Avoid excessive use of paper or putting anything unusual in the toilet. So-called “disposable wipes” must never be placed down the toilet, but should be placed in an ordinary wastebasket. Wipes can expand and cause clogging and damage to building drains, as well as causing problems for municipal waste treatment systems. If your toilet malfunctions and cannot be fixed with a plunger as described below, notify management. There will be no charge unless the blockage or damage is caused by negligence, misuse or a breach of the rules.

The following items are considered chargeable damage to the toilet and/or sanitary systems:

  • Large accumulation of paper
  • Use of paper products other than toilet paper
  • Disposable diapers or wipes
  • Sanitary napkins, tampons, etc.
  • Grease or any other material (other than ordinary use)
  • Kitty litter
  • Any other foreign object found to have been dropped or flushed in the toilet

It is your responsibility to keep personal items, cosmetics, hairpins, toys, and other property away from and out of the toilet. These items can cause plugging and damage if they are accidentally dropped or flushed in the toilet.

Clogged Toilet

DO NOT put drain cleaners in the toilet. Use a plunger. If the problem persists, notify management.

Overflowing Toilet

Immediately shut off the water using the shut-off valve located on the wall near the base of the toilet. Notify management and clean up any water from overflow.

Toilet Running Constantly or Not Flushing Properly
  • Notify management.
  • Do not stand on, slam, or use excessive force on the toilet seat.
  • Please understand that condensation on the exterior surface of the toilet is normal in the summer months.This condensation may drip to the floor, appearing similar to a leak.Check this before contacting management regarding your toilet leaking.
Shower/Tub
  • Utilize an outside and inside shower curtain and shower mat at all times.The shower curtain must be inside the tub and encompass corners of the tub area to prevent water leaking during shower usage.
  • Should you notice a leak at the fixture or spout, notify management immediately.
  • A small amount of water coming from the tub spout when showering is normal.
  • Should you notice a large amount of water coming from the tub spout that decreases water pressure when showering, notify management.
  • Keep the drain opening clear at all times.
  • If water is draining slowly, make sure the drain area is free of hair and other debris.DO NOT put any drain cleaner such as Drain-O down the drain.If slow draining continues, notify management.
  • Should you notice missing caulking or loose fixtures, notify management.
Cabinetry and Flooring and Water

Cabinetry and flooring in kitchen and bathroom areas are designed to withstand normal amounts of moisture. But cabinetry and flooring are not waterproof and can be damaged, subject to delamination, or leak into other areas if standing water is permitted to accumulate. Water should promptly be wiped and removed from all cabinet areas and flooring. Do not leave wet towels, clothes, mats, or other soggy materials on any flooring or cabinetry surface area or hanging directly on wooden doors as this can damage flooring and building materials and lead to problems with mold and mildew.

Appliances

No additional major appliances other than those supplied with your apartment shall be installed by the resident, including window air conditioners, dishwashers, freezers, freestanding air or water filters or purifiers or laundry equipment, unless specifically authorized at the property. If any appliance uses additional energy or utilities provided by management, management may condition the consent for approval of any additional appliance on paying a supplemental utility charge or increase in rent.

Range

Clean the top burner pans on a regular basis to eliminate grease buildup. Do not line burner pans or oven surfaces with foil, as this can catch grease and cause a higher risk of fire. Foil in the stove may also impede or limit the circulation of heat and can also increase fire risk. Clean the oven regularly with an oven cleaner. This will eliminate burned food buildup. Never use any sharp instruments to clean the oven. Hood vent filters should be removed and cleaned monthly in hot, soapy water.

Self-Cleaning Ranges

Do not use oven cleaner to clean these machines, as it may damage the appliance.

Disposal

Do not put metal, glass, plastic, grease, paper, cigarettes, bones, egg shells, carrot/cucumber/potato peelings, banana peels, tea bags, unpopped popcorn, corn silks and husks, cooked or uncooked rice, mashed potatoes, fruit or avocado pits, aquarium rocks, kitty litter, animal fat or animal waste, sponges, dishcloths, and especially any leafy vegetables, or any other foreign substance, down the disposal. The disposal should be used on a limited basis to clean food items off plates, and is not a substitute for properly disposing excess food materials in the garbage. Putting large quantities of any food item, particularly cooked rice, pasta, or potatoes, through the disposal and into the drains can clog drains and damage the disposal as well as building plumbing. Attempts to use the disposal on improper items will dull the blades or plug up the line and can burn out the motor. Cold water should be running as fast as possible when the machine is in use. Even after the disposal is empty, it is wise to let the water run a few minutes to clear the line. Never put your hands or any metal objects down the disposal when it is turned on. A handful of ice cubes once a month will sharpen the blades and makes the disposal more efficient. Do not use drain cleaners at any time. It is recommended that a lid or cover be placed over the disposal when not in use to prevent items from falling into the drain.

Dishwasher

Make certain dishes are scraped and rinsed prior to placing them in the racks. Do not crowd dishes, cups, glasses, or silverware so that water can circulate freely over each piece. Avoid covering the center hole in the lower rack for maximum efficiency. USE ONLY DISHWASHER DETERGENT PRODUCTS. Use of other products will destroy the appliance. The dishwasher should be run or used on a weekly basis to keep parts and seals properly functioning. Even persons that do not choose to wash dishes in the appliance are asked to run and cycle the dishwasher periodically to keep parts and seals flexible and in good working order.

Laundry Rooms

Please remove your loads promptly to ensure goodwill with other residents. If the laundry rooms are in need of cleaning, or if you have lost money in the machines, please notify the office staff immediately. Management is not responsible for lost, stolen, damaged or unattended clothing. Laundry rooms and facilities are provided exclusively for the use of residents. It is a violation of the lease to allow other persons to have access to or use the laundry room for laundry for persons that are not members of resident’s household and on resident’s lease.

Washers

Clean any soaps or other residue left in the machine prior to your use. Never reach into the washer while it is still moving. Do not overfill the tubs because this will result in water all over the floor and will not get the clothes clean.

Dryers

Clean the lint filter each time the dryer is used and make sure it is in place when the dryer is running. TENNIS SHOES are NOT to be placed in the dryer at any time.

Storage Lockers (if applicable)

Storage lockers are the resident’s responsibility. Fire codes require that storage lockers be kept locked at all times. Residents are not permitted to put items, even on a temporary basis, in common areas or outside hallways. Items are to be kept at all times in the locked storage area. management does not carry fire, theft or any casualty insurance on resident’s personal possessions. Whether or not a fee is paid for a storage locker, any use of a storage locker or storage space is at resident’s own risk. Resident shall periodically inspect and maintain the storage space, with inspections to occur on at least a monthly basis, and promptly report any repair, service, leakage, or defect in the storage locker to management. Failure to timely inspect or report any deficiency in a storage locker may subject other residents to damage or spillage that may occur in any adjoining storage locker. Storage of any firearms, toxic chemicals, or illegal, stolen, dangerous, regulated, or hazardous materials is prohibited. Resident shall not store any foodstuffs or materials in a manner that could attract or be accessed by pests, and any foodstuffs shall be kept in impermeable sealed containers. Storage lockers are to be used exclusively for storage and may not be used for any other purpose, or “occupied” in any way by any resident or animal. Any use of a storage locker is subject to management’s right to enter the storage locker for purposes of performing inspection, conducting repairs, doing maintenance, or showing the space to prospective tenants, buyers, lenders, insurers or inspectors. A building-wide notice of inspections to storage lockers shall be sufficient for giving notice of management access. At the end of the lease, it is resident’s responsibility to remove all items from the storage locker, and leave it in a clean and undamaged condition. Do not store gasoline, paint or any flammable or hazardous materials in lockers. Storage is not permitted on patios, entrances or garages.

Decorating Your New Home

Apartments may not be redecorated or altered without written consent of the management. Painting, wallpapering, and hanging light fixtures are not allowed. Putting up removable wallpaper or hanging plants from the ceiling is permitted with written consent of the management. You may hang pictures and mirrors with picture nails, small “J” hooks, or tacks. Stick-on hangers and tape is prohibited because the paint and sheetrock will come off when tape is removed.

Blinds and Window Coverings

If blinds are not provided with your apartment, please observe the following: (1) rugs, sheets, foil, towels, and paper are not acceptable window dressings, (2) to maintain a pleasant community appearance, residents must use window treatments with a neutral color, or a light or neutral backed lining. If blinds are provided, any additional window coverings must be placed in front of the blinds so that they are not visible to the outside. No window coverings may be installed that require installation of hooks or rods or hardware in the wall or window frames without management’s advance approval and consent. Any damage to the wall or window frames must be restored and repaired, at resident’s expense, before vacating. No window covering, wall hanging, or window dressing may obstruct any baseboard heat or air circulation so as to cause condensation or freezing during winter months. Management may condition the approval on any window covering on it being above the floor, and away from any wall or window area or heat source, so as to allow adequate ventilation and to prevent condensation.

Heating

You can help keep your apartment warm and prevent the pipes from freezing in your apartment by following the basic rules below:

  • Keep your drapes open over the heat registers at all times.
  • Make sure that your furniture and any other personal property are at least four inches away from the heat registers.Excessive quantities of personal property, storage boxes, and other clutter will impede airflow.
  • Immediately notify the office if you are having problems with your heat.
  • When you leave for a few days, make sure you leave the heat on to avoid freezing the pipes. Where units have individual thermostats, the thermostat must be set high enough to allow adequate heat to avoid freezing or damaging pipes.
  • During heating months, windows and doors must not be left open and any opening of a window must be brief, and monitored, to allow a brief exchange of fresh air.Opening windows can waste any utilities provided by management and can cause damage to pipes and risk of freezing.Management reserves the right to monitor the building during heating months and any observation of an open window or door is a violation of lease.
  • NEVER turn the heat off in your apartment even if you are vacating your apartment.In cold weather, the pipes will freeze and burst, causing extensive damage to your unit.The utilities must remain in your name with the utility company until the last day you are responsible for rent, even if you move out early.

Air Conditioning

The following will ensure that your air conditioner is operating efficiently and effectively:

Wall Units

Turn the air exchange knob to close. This will allow the air to circulate inside your apartment and close off the outside air. Your air conditioner has a filter that should be cleaned in hot, soapy water at least every two weeks during the air conditioning season. If air conditioners are provided by the property, residents are not allowed to install their own air conditioners.

Central Air Conditioning Units

Select the “cool” setting on the thermostat. Select the “automatic” setting on thermostat and set your desired temperature.

Mold and Mildew Prevention

Mold, mildew, and fungi are common elements found throughout the indoor and outdoor environment. The presence of these substances in indoor and outdoor air, on the ground, and in soil is common and is not a source of problem or injury to most healthy people. However, certain conditions can permit mold, mildew, and fungi to grow in a way that could be injurious to building materials. It is the responsibility of every resident to maintain the unit so as to provide appropriate climate control and cleanliness standards, so as to retard and prevent mold and mildew from accumulating in the unit.

To minimize the occurrence and growth of mold in your home, residents are responsible for the following:

  1. Removing any visible moisture accumulation in your home, including on walls, windows, floors, ceiling, and bathroom fixtures; mop up spills and thoroughly dry affected area as soon as possible after occurrence; use exhaust fans in kitchen and bathroom.Residents with larger households, or residents that frequently shower, will find that moisture can and will accumulate in bathroom areas.Exhaust fans should be used before and after bathing.Keeping bathroom doors open to allow air exchange will prevent moisture and mildew accumulation from occurring in bathrooms.Keep climate and moisture in your home at reasonable levels.Greenhouse structures, or large numbers of plants, are not allowed inside apartments because they add to excess humidity levels that can lead to mold or mildew growth.
  2. Notify management promptly if you notice any of the following:
    • A water leak, excessive moisture, or standing water in your home or a common area;
    • mold growth that persists after you have tried to remove it with household cleaning solutions; or
    • a malfunction in any part of the heating, air-conditioning, or ventilation system.

Residents are liable for damages sustained to the building or to resident’s person or property as a result of failure to comply with these mold and mildew prevention guidelines.

Kitchen Exhaust Vents and Fans

For fire safety and to minimize food odors, this area of the kitchen requires regular cleaning. You can do this by washing the exhaust vent with warm water and detergent. If your vent has a filter, this should also be cleaned or changed regularly. To allow adequate ventilation, air movement, and to prohibit damages caused by excess humidity and moisture, it is important that exhaust fans and vents be used while cooking and thereafter to allow air circulation and to vent excess heat, moisture, and odors. It is a violation of your lease to cover or obstruct any exhaust vent. Fans should be used when cooking. Any cooking process that involves boiling, steaming or lengthy use of the stove or oven should include running the fan at all times and after cooking to ventilate the area.

Fire Precautions

You are personally responsible/liable for any damage to your unit as a result of fire caused by negligence and for occupancy and housekeeping habits that pose fire safety risks. We suggest that you take the following precautions:

  • Do not keep any flammables, explosives, or other non-household combustible items in your unit.
  • Dispose of newspapers and other refuse regularly.
  • Do not place matches or lighters where children can reach them.
  • Clean grease from the cooking range, oven, and exhaust fans and vents regularly.
  • Never empty ashtrays into the wastebasket.
  • Do not smoke in bed, while lying down, reclining or tired.
  • Do not use worn electrical cords.
  • Do not overload electrical outlets.
  • Never leave candles or any burning objects unattended.
  • Do not block hallways or entrance areas.
  • Ownership or storage of excessive amounts of personal property or furnishings can pose a fire hazard to you and other Residents.It will also impede the circulation of heat and ventilation in your unit.You must remove, or store off-site, any personal property deemed by management to be excessive.
  • Never leave any paper, flammable materials, or other objects not designed for cooking near stoves or cook top surfaces.For units that are equipped with a water heater, furnace, or other heating unit, Residents should keep all paper and other flammable materials away from any water heater, furnace, or other heating unit.
  • Live Christmas trees and wreaths are not permitted in your unit or the building.
  • Fireworks, even legal fireworks, are prohibited anywhere in the unit or the rental community.
  • Never leave any burning or heated object, such as a curling iron, unattended.
  • Any burning item, like incense, or object that generates heat, should not be placed on any shelf area where it could cause damage to cabinetry above the shelf or start a fire, or near any source of draft or moving fabric or curtain.
  • Resident should actively monitor any item on a stove, or in a microwave, and any cooking.Unattended cooking is a major source of household fires.

Smoke Detectors

Your apartment is equipped with one or more smoke detectors as of the date of move-in. As part of your lease agreement, you acknowledge that you have inspected the smoke detector(s); and that you find the smoke detector(s) to be in proper working condition. Your interference with, disconnecting, or tampering with the operation of the smoke detector in any way is a breach of the lease agreement.

Testing and Repair

Resident agrees that it is resident’s duty to regularly test the smoke detector(s) and agrees to notify management immediately in writing of any problem, defect, malfunction, or failure of the smoke detector(s). Management shall promptly repair or replace the smoke detector(s), assuming the availability of labor and materials.

Maintenance

Resident agrees to replace the smoke detector(s) battery, if any, at any time the existing battery becomes unserviceable. If after replacing the battery the smoke detector will not operate, Resident must immediately inform management in writing of any deficiencies.

Disclaimer

Resident agrees that management is not the operator, manufacturer, distributor, retailer, or supplier of the smoke detector(s). Resident assumes full and complete responsibility for all risk and hazards attributable to, connected with, or in any way related to the operation, malfunction, or failure of the smoke detector(s), regardless of whether such malfunction or failure is attributable to, connected with, or in any way related to the use, operation, manufacture, distribution, repair, servicing, or installation of said smoke detector(s). No representation, warranties, undertaking, or promises, whether oral or implied, or otherwise, have been made by management, its agents or employees to resident regarding said smoke detector(s), or the alleged performance of the same. Management neither makes nor adopts any warranty of any nature regarding said smoke detector(s) including expressed or implied warranties. Management shall not be liable for damages, losses, and/or injuries to person(s) or property caused by (1) resident’s failure to regularly test the smoke detector(s); (2) resident’s failure to notify management of any problem, defect, malfunction, or failure of the smoke detector(s); (3) theft of the smoke detector(s) or its serviceable battery, and/or (4) false alarms produced by the smoke detector(s).

Pest Control

All residents are required to assist management in pest control procedures.

Your participation in our pest control treatment program is MANDATORY. If your unit is not ready when our pest control vendor is treating units, you may be required to pay a retreatment or second-visit fee. You are required to comply with all requests for readying your unit for pest control treatments, which may include emptying cupboards, removing materials from under sinks or vanities, and other requests. Residents are also required to follow any recommendations or treatment control requests of our pest control vendor. Some pests, such as bedbugs, may require residents to dispose of or professionally clean (at high temperatures or with chemical treatments) personal property and fabrics. Residents are responsible for all costs of treating or removing personal property, furniture, mattresses, and fabrics needed to achieve effective pest control. Management will not reimburse or replace personal property that must be treated or eliminated. Failure to follow the requirements of our pest control vendor is a breach of your lease.

Cleanliness and vigilance are the best preventative medicine in controlling pests. Dispose of all garbage and waste. Do not leave food, dirty dishes, or soft drink bottles/cans lying around. Do not bring cardboard boxes, crates, or other materials that may have been accessible to pests into your unit. Storage of foodstuffs, grains, or like materials should only be in plastic or metal sealed containers. Be careful bringing luggage and used furniture or property into your unit. Some pests, like bedbugs, can hitchhike on you or your belongings. Even the “cleanest” housekeeper may pick up a bedbug from clothes at a laundry, luggage and travel. Please notify Management if you see signs of pests in your apartment or any other place in the building. Failure to promptly notify Management of pests in your unit is a serious violation of your Lease. Prompt notification to Management is necessary to prevent pest infestation and to keep pests from spreading. If pests are found in an adjoining unit or common area, and your unit is identified as the source of an infestation and you did not report the pest, you may be responsible for treatment costs and this is grounds for Lease enforcement up to and including eviction for breach of these rules. If routine inspections find that a unit has had an ongoing pest problem that is not reported, this may be grounds for lease termination or non-renewal.

Building Amenities

Thies & Talle Management, Inc. has provided the residents with certain amenities. Please note that these amenities are provided at the discretion of the management company. Access may be limited, or hours of use may be changed, and amenities may be replaced or removed at any time for reasons of insurance, marketing, high cost, or at management’s sole discretion. Resident agrees and understands that the rental payment set forth in the lease is solely for the exclusive use and occupancy by resident of the apartment. No part of the rental payment is for the use of community amenities or recreational facilities. Suspension, interruption of use, changes in hours, or other partial or complete termination of any community amenity and/or recreational facility shall not be grounds for resident to reduce or deduct any amount from the rental payment due and owing under the lease.

Community/Party Room (if applicable)

Contact the office if you wish to reserve this room. Use of the community/party room is exclusively for residents wanting to use the room for social or familial purposes. Residents may not invite members of the general public or use the community room for any public use. The community room may not be used for any sale or business activity. Residents will be responsible for all guests or persons visiting the room at the time it is reserved by resident. Limits on the number of persons that may use the room may be in place at individual communities. Individual communities may also have a community/party room rental agreement that needs to be signed as a condition for any rental. The office will then provide you with information on using this amenity. For most properties, there is a cleaning and damage deposit required that will be returned after the room has been inspected and left in a satisfactory condition. Keys will be issued on the last business day prior to your scheduled event and should be returned after checking out.

Bottled alcohol is permitted; however kegs of beer are not allowed. If there is any complaint, police call, or other disruption relating to the use of the room during a resident activity, Management reserves the right to immediately order resident to terminate the use of the room, and to require all guests to leave the premises. The resident is responsible for the behavior and noise level of their gathering.

Fitness Room (if applicable)

This room is open 24 hours a day; however, please remember that this room is located next to several apartments. Individual apartment communities may have additional rules and requirements, or require a signed release or waiver, before the fitness room may be used. Posted rules and requirements, including limits on use of equipment, must be observed. Residents are advised to consult with their own healthcare advisors before undertaking any fitness or exercise activity. No beverages other than water in unbreakable bottles are allowed in the fitness center. Residents must wear proper workout attire, including proper footwear, when using the fitness room. A resident over the age of 16 must accompany guests to this room. Residents and guests use all equipment at their own risk and must observe the correct usage, instructions and any cautions for all equipment and facilities. Please report any damaged equipment to the office as soon as possible.

Shopping Carts (if applicable)

These are provided for all residents and are not to be kept for any length of time in the apartments. Failure to comply with this rule, or reports of any resident keeping a shopping cart in his/her apartment for any period of time longer than the time needed for actual use, may result in Management revoking any right or privilege for resident to use the shopping carts. Please return them as soon as you have finished using them to the proper cart storage locations. Do not leave them in elevators or hallways where they could obstruct access. Shopping carts are to be used to assist residents in moving items to their units. Persons should not be placed or transported in shopping carts and no person should play with the shopping carts.

Pool/Sauna/Spa (if applicable)

  • No food, snacks, or glass in these areas.
  • Beverages must be in unbreakable containers.Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
  • Two guests are allowed per apartment.
  • Residents must be with guests at all times.
  • Pool hours are posted and strictly enforced.
  • For safety and liability reasons, an adult must accompany people under the age of 14.
  • Proper swimwear intended for use in a pool, and safe for pool filters and equipment, is required for all ages.
  • Infants and toddlers must wear a tight fitting, properly designed, swim diaper or should not be permitted in any pool.
  • No person with any communicable disease, open sore, or incontinence should use the pool or any spa.
  • Additional rules and requirements may be posted in pool or recreational areas and must be followed.

Trash Removal

All trash is to be placed in plastic bags and tied to prevent papers and other items from falling out. No liquids or flammable or hazardous materials are allowed in the trash chutes or garbage containers.

Trash services are provided only for resident and resident’s household. Resident may not dispose of any oversized items, including furniture, without written permission and may be required to pay additional charges. Refuse receptacles may not be used by any person other than resident and resident’s household. Resident may not dispose of any hazardous materials or products. For privacy, sanitation and security purposes, no resident or person may look through or remove any items from the recycling or trash areas.

Recycling containers are located in the trash room. Remove items from brown paper or plastic bags prior to placing in containers. Cardboard boxes are to be broken down. Please notify the office if you need to dispose of large items such as beds, mattresses, etc.

Parking & Vehicle Information

All residents must register their cars with the rental office and may be required to demonstrate proof of vehicle insurance depending on the policy of the property. Resident(s) shall maintain insurance that covers loss and damage to resident’s personal property and/or vehicle and provides liability insurance coverage to adequately cover any claims of other personal property that could cause liability claims. Cars that are parked illegally or in restricted areas or violate the policies below will be towed away at the owner’s expense.

Below are some regulations specific to the type of parking available at your property. For all types of parking, the use of the garage by resident(s) is solely at the risk of resident(s). Management is not responsible for any damage or injury that is done to resident(s) or his/her property, guests, invitees, or other third parties invited to the community by resident or their property. Management’s insurance does not provide any coverage or compensation to resident(s) for loss or damage to personal property, casualty, or other harms that are not management’s fault. Management is not responsible for the actions of, or for any damages, injury, or harm caused by third parties (such as other residents, guests, intruders or trespassers) who are not under management’s control.

Individual Resident Garages (if applicable)

Garage doors must be kept closed and locked at all times except when moving vehicle in or out of the garage. Garages are to be used exclusively for the storage of a motor vehicle. The garages are not intended or rented for use as general storage space for personal property furnishings, appliances, boxes, or miscellaneous personal property. Residents are specifically prohibited from storing any flammable, combustible, hazardous or other illegal, stolen, or regulated or dangerous materials in the garage. Storage of propane gas containers, firearms, toxic chemicals, gasoline, kerosene, camp stoves, illegal, stolen, dangerous, regulated, or hazardous materials in garage, or report of storage of such materials, is grounds for management to enter the garage, or to give law enforcement or other governmental authorities access to the garage, and confiscate items without prior written notice. Residents may not use, run or maintain electricity in or to the garage or attempt to heat the garage in any manner.

Management advises resident that the rental of a garage space is solely for purpose of parking a motorized vehicle such as a car or motorcycle, a boat, a trailer, a bicycle, or like vehicle that can safely be exposed to temperature changes, water, and the elements. Management hereby advises resident that the garage spaces are not waterproof and that it is possible, and at times likely, that water may get into the garage space by roof leaks and/or through the bottom of the garage space during heavy rains or at other high water times. Resident(s) specifically agree(s) and acknowledge(s) that resident(s) may not store any other personal belongings such as boxes of personal items, furniture, appliances, etc., in the garage. If a resident does store any personal belongings in a garage space in violation of this agreement, that storage is strictly at the resident’s sole risk. Residents shall be responsible for any damages, whether or not the fault of resident, caused by resident’s vehicle or personal property in the garage area. For example, should the vehicle of resident catch on fire and damage the garage or the property of other residents, resident shall be responsible for damage.

Residents may not conduct any business activity, including any “garage sales” in the garage space. Residents may not do repair or service work on resident’s auto, or any other auto or equipment in garage. Residents, resident’s guests, children, visitors or other may not use the garage for purposes other than parking a vehicle. Social and recreational activities are not permitted in garages. Example: Resident may not use the garage as a gathering space, “man cave,” exercise or sports space (i.e., no bouncing balls off the walls).

Resident agrees to periodically inspect and maintain the garage. Resident shall inspect the garage immediately after any severe weather event, including lengthy periods of precipitation, with other inspections to occur on at least a monthly basis, and to report any repair or service request to management. Failure by resident to inspect the garage on at least a monthly basis, and immediately following severe or lengthy wet weather, and to report any necessary work or service that results in damage to the garage or to any adjoining garage, property or area shall result in resident being responsible for any costs of repairs, service or damages.

Residents shall notify management in writing of any condition that may cause injury, require repair, or affect the habitability of the garage. Residents may not make efforts to “repair” door, springs, rollers or other of the garage. Residents may not install or attach any shelving, fixtures, or improvements or alterations to any wall, door, ceiling or other surface in the garage. Any substance or activity that could stain or damage the garage floor, door or any other part of the structure is prohibited.

Residents shall not park any vehicle in front of any garage at any time. Residents must remove snow from entry of garage within 24 hours after any snow or ice event. Failure to remove snow from an area one foot in front of the length of the garage door may result in management’s staff removing the snow and billing Residents for these services. Failure to remove snow and treat ice in a prompt manner can result in the garage door and closing mechanism freezing and the door or opening track system incurring damage, the repair of which will be of the resident’s financial responsibility for failure to comply with the terms of this paragraph.

Residents will be furnished with one key to the garage space rented. Resident may not duplicate the key provided. Resident is not permitted to change the lock(s) or install any security or other devices without first obtaining written consent of the management and must furnish management with the keys for any changed lock and/or codes and/or operating device instructions prior to installation. Resident is responsible to restore the garage to its original condition upon move out or as requested by management. Resident will be charged for any additional keys or replacement keys. If it is necessary for management to replace lock(s), resident agrees to pay these charges.

Management shall have the right to enter resident’s garage space for purposes of performing inspection, conducting repairs, doing maintenance, or to show the garage to prospective tenants, buyers, lenders, insurers, or other inspectors. Where building-wide inspections are being conducted, posted notice of inspections or notice delivered in any newsletter or flyer of management shall be sufficient.

Resident must vacate the garage at the end of their lease term. Resident must leave the garage in a clean and undamaged condition, ordinary wear and tear accepted. Extra cleaning, trash removal, sheet rock or door removal, or treatment required for stains on the garage concrete slab, will be charged to resident, and deducted from resident’s security deposit.

If garages are rented separately from apartments at a property and there are not enough garages available for all of the residents, management reserves the right to restrict, limit, or terminate garage use if residents are not using a garage for an operable vehicle used on a regular basis for personal transportation.

Underground Parking Garage Regulations (if applicable)

Management advises resident that the rental of a parking garage space is solely for purpose of parking a motorized vehicle such as a car or motorcycle, a boat, a trailer, a bicycle, or like vehicle that can safely be exposed to temperature changes, water, and the elements. Management hereby advises resident that the parking garage spaces are not waterproof and that it is possible, and at times likely, that water may get into the garages through leaks or other means. Resident(s) specifically agree(s) and acknowledge(s) that resident(s) may not store any other personal belongings such as boxes of personal items, furniture, appliances, etc., in the parking garage space. If a resident does store any personal belongings in a garage space in violation of this agreement, that storage is strictly at the resident’s sole risk.

The use of the garage by resident(s) is solely at the risk of resident(s). Management is not responsible for any damage or injury that is done to resident(s) or his/her property, guests, invitees, or other third parties invited to the community by resident or their property. Management’s insurance does not provide any coverage or compensation to resident(s) for loss or damage to personal property, casualty, or other harms that are not management’s fault. Management is not responsible for the actions of, or for any damages, injury, or harm caused by third parties (such as other residents, guests, intruders or trespassers) who are not under management’s control.

Resident(s) shall maintain insurance that covers loss and damage to resident’s personal property and/or vehicle and provides liability insurance coverage to adequately cover any claims of other personal property that could cause liability claims.

Outside Parking Lot (if applicable)

At some properties, residents are given assigned spaces in the outside parking lot and visitors are given designated spaces to park in. Vehicles parked improperly in spaces assigned to other residents may be towed at the owner’s expense.

If it snows over two inches, you are responsible for moving your vehicle to one of the cleared spaces. Residents will receive only one written notice for the entire winter season. Residents are not given snow removal notices with each snow event, but are expected to proactively make arrangements to remove their vehicles to allow proper plowing and clearing of the lot. If you are absent from the property, it is your responsibility to make arrangements with another family member, or neighbor, or otherwise, to move your vehicle after any snow event to allow the lot to be plowed. The snow removal contract limits the number of times a company will return to plow the lot per snowfall and will result in additional charges or higher fees, thereby resulting in higher rents. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Residents may not do repair or service work on resident’s auto, or any other auto or equipment in the parking lot. Residents, residents’ guests, children, visitors or other may not use the parking lot for purposes other than parking a vehicle. Social and recreational activities are not permitted in any outdoor parking area. Cars that have any fluid leaks must be removed and/or repaired at once so that fluids do not leak, stain, or damage surface parking areas. You will be responsible for any treatment or repair from fluid leakage or damage caused by your vehicle. Residents are also not allowed to wash or wax their cars in the outside parking lot. Any outside water source at a property is strictly reserved for landscaping, lawn watering or other use by management.

Outdoor surface parking is available only for vehicles with current tabs, that are operable, and are regularly moved and in actual use. Outdoor surface parking is not available for storage. Individual properties may limit or restrict outdoor parking to use of standard vehicles and light duty trucks, and restrict or prohibit any commercial vehicles, oversized vehicles, vans or trucks that are not of standard size.

At some properties management may add additional outdoor parking lot restrictions including, but not limited to, limiting the number of vehicles a household can park in the lot and requiring residents to display permits in order to park in the outdoor parking lot.

Vacating Your Home

Your lease agreement states the notice period required in the event you intend to move. This notice is required in writing, given at the management office, and is necessary in order that the management may market the unit to a new resident. During the notice period, after a notice to vacate is given, your lease requires you to reasonably cooperate with management’s efforts to show the unit to prospects. A failure to give management reasonable entry to show and market the unit is a violation of your lease and could make you responsible for management’s lost rents and damages for inability to rent the apartment when you vacate.

Individuals called to active duty for more than 90 days have the right to terminate a lease provided the lease was entered into before entering active duty and the leased premises were occupied.

If a resident is called to active duty, they must provide the management with a written copy of their military orders. With this written notice, the resident may move out thirty days after the first date on which the next payment is owed. (For example, one full month through the end of the following month without penalty.)

Upon receipt of your notice to vacate, you will receive a letter from us that includes guidelines for cleaning and information about possible damage charges. It is a requirement of your lease, and these rules, for you to follow the steps in the cleaning guidelines, and any other move out instructions, to receive the full return of your security deposit. Failure to clean, or to remove all trash, personal property, and debris, or damages beyond ordinary wear and tear or missing property, is a basis for charges to your deposit. You must continue to pay all utilities that are your responsibility under the last date of your responsibility under the lease. Any unpaid utilities, or other charges owed under the lease, are grounds for deduction from your deposit. Approximately two weeks prior to vacating, a preventative maintenance inspection will be completed. Please notify the office of when you wish to schedule the final inspection/checkout.

Reminder: Your lease terminates at noon on the last day of the month. Therefore, you must have vacated the apartment by that time. Failure to comply will result in overtime charges and payment to management of any other damages or costs incurred.

At the time of checking out, ensure that all rent and other charges due have been paid. All keys, garage passes, parking permits, etc., must be turned into the property manager. Failure to return these will result in a $35.00 per item minimum charge, unless otherwise stated in your lease or in the property’s guidelines for cleaning and damages. It is your responsibility to notify the electric and phone companies of your departure and have them stop your service. You are responsible for utility charges to your unit through the last date of lease responsibility, even if you move before that date.

During the final inspection, notes will be made regarding any cleaning or damage that is needed and may require additional repairs/costs. These amounts will be charged against your security deposit.

Per state law, “The Resident’s Security Deposit cannot be used for the last month’s rent. [Residents] who attempt to use the security deposit for the last month’s rent may be taken to court and may have to pay the landlord the amount of the rent withheld plus a penalty.”

Your security deposit will be processed and forwarded to you as per state law. You must provide our office with a forwarding address to expedite your security deposit. If you lived at a Minnesota property, your Certificate of Rent Paid will be forwarded to the noted address at the end of the year.

Thank you for your residency! We hope that you have enjoyed your time with Thies & Talle Management and please let us know if we can assist you in the future.