FOR OUR TENANTS - TENANT FAQ/INSTRUCTIONS
Tenant FAQs and Moving-In Instructions
Preparing for your new home: What tenants need to know
Congratulations on choosing your new rental home! Our team is thrilled to welcome you to the Southern Dreams Property Management community. We hope the home and property meet your expectations.
The Southern Dreams Property Management team is committed to maintaining high service standards throughout your tenancy. However, being a new tenant might come with a lot of questions. We've prepared this guide to answer some of the most common inquiries. It covers move-in procedures, rent payments, maintenance requests, and more. We've also included helpful information to ensure a smooth transition and a comfortable stay in your new home.
So, relax, unpack, and get ready to make this rental property your new home! With these FAQs and instructions, we intend to make your rental experience as easy as possible. Remember, our friendly property management team is always just a call or email away. Feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions that we need to address. We're here to support you!
Here's a Few of Our More Frequently Asked Questions by Tenants
1When is my rent due?
Rent is due on the 1st of each month, with a 5-day grace period. To avoid late charges, ensure we receive your rent by 11:59 PM EST on the 5th of each month.
2What happens if I pay my rent after the 5th?
If you pay rent after the 5th, a late fee of 10% of your monthly rent will be applied unless otherwise specified in your lease agreement. Late payment may also put you at risk of eviction, so please ensure you pay your rent on time.
3Where can I pay rent?
4What is considered a maintenance emergency?
Major Leaks: Contact us immediately at 803-920-2321 or submit a priority maintenance request in the tenant portal.
No Heat or Hot Water: Report immediately.
Fire or Criminal Activity: Call 911.
Gas Leak: Vacate the home and contact your gas provider.
1Can I have a satellite dish installed at my property?
Installation of satellite dishes on the roof is not permitted. However, you may secure a satellite pole on the exterior ground subject to HOA or owner approval.
2May I make modifications to the property?
You cannot modify the property without obtaining express written permission. Submit a modification request through the tenant portal. The property owner will review the request and decide whether to approve it.
3What are the procedures for moving out?
For detailed steps, refer to our website's Lease Move Out Guidelines attached to your lease agreement.
4What are my rights to privacy as a tenant?
Southern Dreams Property Management respects tenant privacy but reserves the right to enter the dwelling with tenant consent. Reasons for entry include inspections, repairs, improvements, and other necessary services. In emergencies, entry may occur without consent. We typically provide a 24-hour advance notice for non-emergency entries between 9 AM and 6 PM.
Before Move-In
We're excited to welcome you to your new Southern Dreams rental! To ensure a smooth move-in, please follow these steps:
Sign the Lease Agreement Online
Review and sign the lease agreement online via the link in your email. Read the lease agreement thoroughly and ask any questions you may have before signing.
Pay the Security Deposit
Pay your security deposit in full before your move-in date. You can access the payment instructions through the tenant portal.
Pay All Rent and Fees Due Before Move-In
Settle all initial rent, prorated rent, and fees, including the first month's rent and applicable fees, before your move-in date.
Complete online payments at least ten days before your move-in date. You must bring any payments made within ten days of your move-in date with certified funds to the office.
Pick Up Keys
On the move-in day, you can collect your keys from our office at 102 Gantt St, Lexington, SC. Our office hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Schedule a specific time during office hours to ensure your keys are ready.
Please bring a copy of your driver's license for identification. The name on the license must match the name on the lease agreement for us to release the keys. Ensure that the house keys, mailbox keys, key fobs, and garage remotes match your lease agreement. Upon arrival at the property, test all keys, key fobs, and garage remotes. Occasionally, communities may change key fobs for amenities, which can take up to 2 weeks to receive.
Transfer Utilities
To ensure uninterrupted service, transfer all utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet, etc.) into your name before your move-in date. We will turn off all utilities on the day of your move-in.
Contact your garbage service provider to confirm the pick-up day, as this information may change.
Complete Move-In Inspection
Complete the move-in inspection using the RentCheck link we sent you. The list is crucial for documenting the condition of the property at move-in. Include all items with pictures and explanations. We will not consider items recorded without pictures or descriptions during the move-out inspection.
Contact our office immediately if you are still waiting to receive the RentCheck link or have questions. Complete the inspection within 48 hours. Failure to submit within 48 hours implies the property was pristine. That means the tenant will be responsible for any defects found during the move-out inspection.
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Set Up Tenant Portal
Set up your tenant portal for online rent payments and maintenance requests. This portal is your resource for managing your rental experience.
Ensure all tenants on the lease have signed up for the online portal. It allows tenants to pay rent, submit maintenance requests, and communicate with our staff. The portal also contains copies of all relevant documents, including your lease agreement and renewals
Visit Our Website
Browse our site for answers to your questions and helpful information, including your tenant portal login link and move-out instructions.
Change Your Address
Update your address with the post office to ensure you receive all mail and have any previous mail forwarded to your new address.
HOA Regulations
If your community has a homeowner's association, obtain a copy of the rules and regulations. Read them to ensure compliance and avoid violations or fines. Tenants are responsible for following community rules and regulations and will be liable for any fines and violations.
Parking
Please park only in your driveway or designated parking spots, and ensure your guests do the same. Moving may involve multiple vehicles or large trucks, but the tenant must follow community vehicle parking guidelines. Parking on the street or grass is not allowed at all times.
We're here to help! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our office.
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