Welcome!

Welcome to your new home! We are delighted to have you as a tenant and want to ensure that your move-in process is as smooth and hassle-free as possible. This handbook contains important information and guidelines to help you settle into your new home comfortably.

Insurance Requirements

Tenant is required to purchase renter's insurance to protect Tenant's personal property in the Premises and any common areas. The policy should also include liability coverage in case a guest is injured or Tenant accidentally damages another person's property.

Landlord is not responsible for injury or damage except as stated in the lease.

Security Deposit

The security deposit is collected to protect the landlord from financial losses caused by unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning costs, and any other breaches of the lease agreement.

• Use of the Security Deposit:

  The security deposit may be used for the following purposes:

  • Unpaid rent or fees as specified in the lease agreement.
  • Repairing damages to the property that go beyond normal wear and tear.
  • Cleaning costs necessary to restore the property to its original condition.
  • Any other amounts owed by the tenant as specified in the lease agreement.

• Interest:

  The security deposit will be held in a bank account by landlord. 1% per year interest will be credited to the deposit balance.

Move-in Inspection Process

• Document Existing Issues:

  Within fourteen (14) days after occupying the home, use RentJoy.org to document move-in damages, cleaning issues, or repair concerns. Submit dated photos or videos with short written notes identifying the issue and location: https://rentjoy.org/

• Written Acknowledgment:

  Landlord will provide a written receipt or acknowledgment of the RentJoy submission. Landlord will separately document the home's condition after move-out.

• In-Person Inspection:

  If Tenant requests an in-person move-in inspection, Landlord may use an agent, contractor, property manager, inspector, or other representative. The parties will cooperate to schedule a mutually acceptable date and time. If Landlord must retain a third party for the inspection, Tenant pays the $200 inspection agent fee before the scheduled inspection.

Residence Keys

• Key Provision at Move-In:

  The landlord will provide door keys and garage door opener remotes at move-in. Additional door keys can be made at a hardware store.

• Lock Changes and Additions:

  Recognize that the lease agreement prohibits changing or adding locks without the landlord's prior written consent. This rule is typically in place to maintain key control of the rental property.

Utilities

The tenant is responsible for the payment of specific utilities as outlined in the lease agreement. The tenant is responsible for arranging the activation of utilities in their name before or immediately upon taking possession of the rental property.

Mailbox Keys

Locked mailboxes are controlled by the United States Postal Service (USPS). If you need a replacement mailbox key or have a mailbox issue, contact USPS directly. Landlord may provide mailbox keys at move-in as a convenience, but USPS handles locked mailbox access and key replacement.

Communication and Repairs

Use RentJoy.org for move-in condition notes, repair requests, and damage reports. Include clear photos or videos, the location of the issue, a short description, and whether it is urgent.

Report leaks, unsafe conditions, failed equipment, recurring problems, damage, odors, or missing items promptly. Cooperate with reasonable access for inspection or repair.

End of Term

Know your lease end date. Unless a new lease or approved extension is in place, the home must be fully vacated by the end of the lease term.

After notice is given or the home is listed, keep the home reasonably clean and allow access for showings, repairs, inspection, and turnover planning. Report known damage, odors, wall issues, carpet issues, missing items, or needed repairs early.

Move-Out Checklist

Use this checklist to return the home in good condition and keep turnover simple.

• Damage, Odors, and Missing Items:

  Tell Landlord in writing about known damage, odor issues, carpet problems, wall repair needs, missing items, or anything that may require contractor work.

• RentJoy Move-Out Report:

  After you have vacated, cleaned, and removed all personal property, you may request a move-out report through RentJoy.org. Landlord uses RentJoy as the standard no-cost process for move-out condition documentation and will provide a written receipt or acknowledgment of the request.

  Through RentJoy, Landlord may provide a list of items that Tenant can reasonably remedy before the tenancy ends. Items that Tenant cannot reasonably remedy will not be included in the move-out report.

• Remove Personal Property:

  Completely remove your belongings from the home, utility room, garage, parking spaces, closets, cabinets, refrigerator, freezer, and storage areas. Do not leave furniture, trash, debris, or personal property behind.

• Plan Trash Early:

  Start disposing of unwanted items before move-out week. Sweep the garage, remove trash from the Premises, and leave trash and recycling containers reasonably empty for the next occupant.

• Clean the Home:

  Leave the home in the same condition as at move-in, except for ordinary wear. Clean all flooring, bathrooms, walls where needed, baseboards, light fixtures, ceiling fans, appliances, cabinets, the utility room, and the garage.

• Clean the Kitchen:

  Clean the microwave, oven, stove, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, sink, counters, cabinets, vent hood, walls near cooking areas, and any grease or food residue.

• Carpet and Flooring:

  Have carpets professionally cleaned before move-out and keep the receipt. Sweep, vacuum, mop, and clean flooring so it is ready for the next occupant, except for ordinary wear.

• Keys and Access Devices:

  Return all keys, garage door openers, access cards, pool keys, tools, and any other landlord-issued property by move-out.

• Forwarding Address:

  Give Landlord a forwarding address at move-out.

• In-Person Inspection:

  If Tenant requests an in-person move-out inspection, Landlord may use an agent or representative. If Landlord must retain a third party, Tenant pays the $200 inspection agent fee before the scheduled inspection.

Tenant Responsibility and Ordinary Upkeep

Tenants are expected to live in the home with the same daily attention a careful homeowner would use. Landlord handles major repairs, building systems, and work that requires approval or a qualified contractor. Tenant handles normal daily care, prevention, ordinary upkeep, and prompt reporting.

• Daily Care:

  Keep the home clean, orderly, sanitary, and free of avoidable odors, pests, trash, and clutter. Routine cleaning is not a landlord repair item.

• Small Upkeep Items:

  Replace ordinary consumables such as light bulbs, smoke-alarm batteries, thermostat batteries, and garage remote batteries when needed.

• Prevention:

  Use appliances, plumbing, flooring, walls, windows, garage doors, and HVAC equipment carefully and only for their intended purpose. Prevent clogs, odors, stains, pests, excess moisture, and avoidable wear.

• Simple Nuisance Items:

  Handle simple nuisance items before they become service calls, such as clearing hair from drains, cleaning lint traps, resetting normal appliance settings, and aligning garage door sensors.

• Report Bigger Issues:

  Report leaks, unsafe conditions, failed equipment, recurring problems, and anything that may damage the Premises. Do not ignore small problems until they become larger repairs.

• Work Requiring Approval:

  Do not perform painting, wall repairs, fixture installation, electrical work, plumbing work, or other work that requires Landlord approval or a qualified trade.

Pool and HOA Amenities

If the property includes HOA pool access, keep the pool key secure and follow all pool and HOA rules.

No glass is allowed in the pool area. Broken glass can require draining, cleaning, and refilling the pool.

Pool access can be lost if the rules are not followed.

Garbage and Recycling

Put garbage and recycling cans at the designated collection spot on scheduled pickup days, and follow local disposal rules.

If a garbage or recycling can is damaged or needs replacement, contact the service provider using the number on the can.

Homeowners Association

Landlord pays the HOA dues. Tenant must follow the HOA rules provided at lease signing.

HOA rule violations can result in notices or fines. Avoid unnecessary HOA attention by keeping the property, parking, trash, noise, pets, and common-area use within the rules.

If you receive an HOA notice or have a question about a rule, contact Landlord promptly.

Parking

Use the garage for parking whenever possible. If the garage fits two cars and Tenant has a third car, only one car should be parked outside, usually directly in front of the garage.

Guest parking is for guests. Be considerate of neighbors and follow all HOA parking rules in the HOA Rules and Regulations.

Snow and ice Removal

The responsibility for snow removal is handled by a hired company. However, it is essential for tenants to play their part in ensuring safety during winter conditions. Here are some key points:

• Sidewalks and Walkways:

  Tenants should make sure that sidewalks and walkways around their units are clear of snow and ice. This helps prevent hazardous conditions for themselves and others.

• Garage Doors:

  It's crucial to keep the area around the bottom of garage doors clear of snow. Accumulated ice can freeze the garage door shut, potentially trapping vehicles inside until it thaws.

• Communication:

  If dangerous conditions persist or if tenants notice any hazards, they should promptly notify the landlord or property management. Landlords can provide salt or other ice-melting solutions for tenants to use as needed.

Pet Policy

• Pet Ownership Approval:

  Tenants are only allowed to have pets as specified in the lease and pet addendum. Any desire to bring additional pets must be requested and approved in writing. An additional deposit and/or monthly pet rent may be required.

• Understanding HOA Rules:

  The HOA rules and regulations regarding pets were provided to you with your lease at signing. It is essential to read, understand, and strictly follow these rules, especially those concerning pet restrictions and outdoor pet usage.

• Behavior and Damage Control:

  Pets must be well-behaved and not pose a threat to other residents or their pets. Excessive noise, aggressive behavior, or excessive barking is strictly prohibited. Pets should not chew up or scratch flooring, create odors, or cause damage. Report pet-related damage or odor issues promptly.

• Leash and Cleanup Requirements:

  Dogs must be on a leash when outside your apartment unit, including common areas. Always clean up after your pet immediately and dispose of waste properly.

• Liability for Damages and Injuries:

  As a pet owner, you are solely liable for any damage or injuries caused by your pets. It is strongly recommended that tenants acquire renter's insurance that includes liability coverage for pet-related incidents.

Alterations and Decorations

• Painting:

  Do not paint, stain, touch up, sand, refinish, or texture walls, ceilings, trim, cabinets, doors, or other finished surfaces without Landlord's prior written permission.

• Wall Holes and Mounting:

  A reasonable number of small picture nails may be used for ordinary pictures or light decorations. Do not drill holes, install anchors, mount TVs, install shelving, attach fixtures, or attempt wall repairs without Landlord's prior written permission.

• Window Film and Weather Sealing:

  Do not install 3M window film, adhesive window film, tint film, plastic film, tape, or adhesive weather-sealing on windows, glass, trim, or frames. These products can leave a terrible adhesive residue that is hard to remove and can damage finishes.

• Approved Fixtures:

  If Tenant wants a fixture or item attached to the wall, Tenant may ask Landlord for permission. Tenant buys the item, Landlord installs it or arranges installation, and the approved fixture stays with the unit after move-out unless Landlord agrees otherwise in writing.

Drafty Windows and Doors

Tell Landlord if windows or doors seem unusually drafty, damaged, loose, or hard to close. Some drafts can be improved with proper repair or adjustment.

Do not try to make the home airtight with window film, plastic, tape, or other adhesive sealing products. A certain amount of air leakage is normal and needed. Modern tight homes use fresh-air makeup systems to bring outside air in; without that equipment, some outside air still needs to enter the home.

For context, ASHRAE 62.2 residential ventilation is commonly calculated as 7.5 CFM per person plus 0.03 CFM per square foot. Two people alone account for 15 CFM before adding the floor-area amount. See ASHRAE 62.2 ventilation summary.

People breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. In a tightly sealed or crowded room, carbon dioxide can rise and make the room feel stale. People may feel sleepy or dull because of it; that is one reason crowded rooms, including churches, can make people nod off.

Pests

• Keep the Home Clean:

  Keep food, dirty dishes, trash, and pet food cleaned up. Do not leave conditions that attract mice, ants, or other pests.

• Handle Routine Pests:

  Use ordinary traps, repellents, or indoor-approved insect products for routine mice, spiders, ants, and similar common pests. Store pest products safely.

• Report Building Issues:

  Tell Landlord about gaps, holes, nests, repeated entry points, or pest problems that are more than routine tenant maintenance.

Replacement Items

Tenants are responsible for replacing burned out light bulbs and thermostat batteries. Use LED bulbs when replacing lights. For fixtures with multiple bulbs, use bulbs with the same color temperature so the room does not have mismatched lighting.

Keep thermostat batteries fresh. Dead or weak batteries can prevent heat or air conditioning from running correctly, which can lead to frozen pipes, equipment problems, or avoidable service calls.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Battery Replacement:

  Tenants are responsible for replacing smoke detector batteries. If an alarm chirps, replace the battery promptly. Do not remove the alarm.

• Detector Replacement:

  Carbon monoxide detectors have a limited life. If a detector continues to chirp after a fresh battery is installed, contact Landlord for replacement.

• Carbon Monoxide Alarm:

  If a carbon monoxide detector goes off, open windows if you can do so quickly, leave the home for fresh air, and contact Landlord immediately. Never warm up a car in a closed garage with the garage door down.

Smoking, Candles, and Odors

The lease does not allow indoor smoking, vaping, cannabis, incense, candle burning, or other smoke-producing, flame-producing, soot-producing, vapor-producing, or odor-causing use. The practical rule is simple: do not create smoke, soot, wax, vapor, pet urine, pet odor, or similar residue inside the home.

• Candles and Incense:

  Do not burn candles or incense indoors. Candle soot can coat walls, ceilings, ductwork, furnace filters, and return air ducts. Textured ceilings and painted surfaces are difficult to clean once soot builds up.

• Smoke, Vapor, and Cannabis:

  Smoke and vapor odors can settle into carpet, pads, blinds, walls, filters, and soft materials. Removing those odors may require washing, sealing, painting, ozone treatment, carpet work, filter replacement, and contractor work.

• Pet and Other Odors:

  Prevent pet urine, pet odors, food odors, and similar smells from affecting the Premises. Clean issues immediately and report any condition that may require repair or professional treatment.

Kitchen Grease and Food Smells

A clean and odor-free kitchen is essential for a pleasant living environment. Properly managing kitchen grease and food smells not only ensures a fresh atmosphere but also maintains the hygiene of your rental property.

• Tenant Responsibility:

  Tenants are responsible for removal of all food grease from the appliances, walls, vent hood and ceiling.

• Use Proper Cookware:

  Use lids and splatter screens when cooking to minimize grease splatters. Choose non-stick cookware to reduce the amount of oil or butter needed for cooking.

• Regular Cleaning:

  Wipe down countertops, stovetops, and appliances after each cooking session. Clean the inside and outside of your microwave, oven, and refrigerator regularly to prevent food odors from lingering. The best product for removing cooking grease is dishwasher detergent. Sprinkle Cascade on your washcloth and it will help dissolve grease buildup.

• Dispose of Cooking Grease:

  Do not pour cooking oil or grease down the sink. Instead, allow it to cool, and then dispose of it in a sealed container in the trash. Consider using a grease disposal container or a designated grease can to collect used cooking oil.

• Garbage Disposal Use:

  Avoid putting food scraps down the garbage disposal. Scrape plates into the trash before rinsing. Run the garbage disposal with cold water for a few seconds after use to help prevent clogs and odors.

• Seal Food Properly:

  Store food in airtight containers to prevent strong food odors from permeating your kitchen. Use resealable bags or containers to store leftovers in the refrigerator.

• Avoid Strong-Smelling Foods:

  Be mindful of cooking highly aromatic foods like fish or spices with strong odors, especially if you live in close proximity to neighbors.

Regular Cleaning

• Regular Cleaning:

  Tenants should prioritize regular cleaning of their residence. Consistent cleaning helps prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and grime, making it easier to maintain a clean and healthy living space.

• Do Not Let Cleaning Build Up:

  It is difficult to catch up on two or three years of neglected cleaning. Clean regularly so dirt, grease, hard-water deposits, odors, and grime do not become major work later.

• Heavy Cleaning:

  Heavy cleaning can involve washing walls, baseboards, light fixtures, ceiling fans, floors, ovens, showers, bathtubs, and toilets. Regular cleaning prevents those jobs from becoming much bigger.

• Importance of Cleaning:

  Regular cleaning not only keeps the living space looking and smelling fresh but also extends the lifespan of various elements within the residence, including carpets and flooring. Accumulated dirt in carpet fibers or on flooring surfaces can act as abrasives, accelerating wear and tear and potentially leading to costly replacements.

Cleaning Kitchen and bathrooms

Purchase cleaners with acid for tackling mineral deposits and other tough cleaning tasks.

• Vinegar:

  White vinegar (acetic acid) is a mild acid that can effectively dissolve mineral deposits and remove stains. Soak a cloth or paper towel in vinegar and wrap it around the affected area for a period of time (e.g., 30 minutes to an hour) before scrubbing. In the bathroom, use vinegar to clean faucets, showerheads, and glass surfaces affected by hard water stains. In the kitchen, use vinegar can be used to descale the inside of your coffee maker, kettle, or dishwasher.

• Lime and Rust removers:

  These commercial products are formulated with stronger acids, such as hydrochloric or sulfuric acid. They are effective for removing stubborn mineral deposits, rust stains, and lime scale from toilets, sinks, and other surfaces.

• Cleaning Sink Drains:

  Sink drains can accumulate debris and develop unpleasant odors if not cleaned regularly. Here's how to address this often overlooked area: Use a toilet brush with stiff bristles to clean sink drains. Wet the brush, apply a small amount of bathroom cleaner spray, dish soap or baking soda to the bristles, and scrub around the drain.

Window Screens

Handle window screens carefully. Do not poke, push, pull, bend, hang items from, or use screens as support. Keep pets from scratching or clawing at screens.

Report torn, bent, loose, or missing screens promptly. Tenant-caused screen damage is the tenant's responsibility. Tenant may have screens professionally repaired, or Landlord may coordinate repair or replacement.

Cleaning Garage

• Regular Sweeping:

  Regularly sweep the garage floor to remove dirt, dust, leaves, and debris. Sweeping can help prevent the accumulation of dirt and keep the garage cleaner overall.

• Winter Maintenance:

  Pay special attention to garage cleanliness during the winter months when salt, sand, and slush can be tracked in from outside. Frequent sweeping during this time can help prevent these substances from being carried into your home.

• Floor Mats:

  Place floor mats or old pieces of carpet near the garage entry points, such as the door leading into your home. These mats can help trap dirt and moisture from shoes, preventing it from spreading further into the house.

  By implementing these practices, you can significantly reduce the amount of dirt and debris that gets tracked into your home from the garage. A clean garage not only contributes to a cleaner living space but also helps extend the life of the flooring by minimizing abrasive materials being brought inside.

Cleaning the Utility Room

• Regular Sweeping:

  Treat the utility room like any other room in your house when it comes to cleaning. Regularly sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust, dirt, and debris. You can also mop the floor if needed.

• Dust and Wipe:

  Dust any shelving units, appliances, or surfaces in the utility room. Use a damp cloth or cleaning spray to wipe down countertops, appliances, and other surfaces to remove any stains or spills.

• Check for Leaks:

  Since utility rooms often house water heaters, washers, and other water-related appliances, regularly inspect for leaks or water damage.

• Safety:

  Keep the utility room safe by ensuring that cleaning supplies, chemicals, and potentially hazardous materials are stored securely and out of reach of children and pets.

Carpet Cleaning

• Regular Vacuuming:

  Vacuum the carpets regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. High-traffic areas may require more frequent vacuuming.

• Use Entrance Mats:

  Place entrance mats at doorways to help prevent dirt and moisture from being tracked onto the carpets. This reduces the risk of stains and wear.

• Prompt Spill Cleanup:

  If spills occur, blot them immediately with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain. For tougher stains, use a recommended carpet stain remover following the product instructions.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

  Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong detergents on carpets, as they can damage the fibers and cause discoloration. Stick to carpet-specific cleaning products.

• Regular Professional Cleaning:

  Consider arranging for professional carpet cleaning every 12 to 18 months, especially if the property has a high tenant turnover rate. Retain receipts as proof of maintenance.

• Furniture Protectors:

  Use furniture coasters or pads under heavy furniture legs to prevent indentations or damage to the carpet fibers.

• Pet Care:

  Clean up pet accidents promptly using an enzyme-based cleaner to neutralize odors and stains.

Vinyl Plank Flooring

• Routine Cleaning:

  Tenants should regularly clean the vinyl plank flooring using a broom or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris. For routine cleaning, use a damp mop with warm water and a mild, pH-neutral cleaner designed for vinyl flooring.

• Furniture Protection:

  Place felt pads or furniture coasters under the legs of heavy furniture to prevent indentations or scratches on the flooring. Regularly check and replace these protective pads as needed.

• Avoid Sharp Objects:

  Protect the floor when moving all items across the floor including appliances. Carry items on to and off of hardwood surfaces. Never drag an item across the surface and avoid use of carts as dirt on wheels can scratch the hardwood surface.

• Mats and Rugs:

  Place mats or rugs at entryways and high-traffic areas to capture dirt and prevent it from being tracked onto the vinyl plank flooring. Ensure that mats have non-slip backings to prevent accidents.

• Avoid Rubber and Foam Backings:

  Do not use mats or rugs with rubber or foam backings, as these materials can discolor or damage the vinyl surface over time. Avoid mats with rubber or other dense backings that will block airflow beneath rugs or might retain abrasives and humidity.

  By following these guidelines, tenants can help ensure the longevity and appearance of vinyl plank flooring, promoting a pleasant and well-maintained living environment. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in financial responsibility for repair or replacement costs.

Garbage disposal

• Tenant Responsibility:

  Tenants are expected to take responsibility for preventing drain clogs caused by food-related debris.

• Responsible Use:

  Contrary to its name, a garbage disposal isn't designed for disposing of garbage or substantial waste down the drain. All food scraps, waste, and leftover food on plates should be scraped into the trash. However, if there are minor food residues such as bits of rice or crumbs left on your dishes, the garbage disposal can be useful for clearing them, rather than allowing them to accumulate.

Clogged Drains

• Tenant Responsibility:

  To prevent hair from clogging the drains in the bathroom, tenants should be proactive. Use a hair-catching device, like a basket or strainer, in the shower or sink drains. This helps collect hair before it can go down the drain.

• Handling Minor Blockages:

  Tenants are responsible for minor drain blockages that occur due to their use of the property. This includes kitchen sink drains, bathroom sinks, and bathtub or shower drains.

  Tenants should attempt to clear minor clogs using appropriate methods such as a plunger or a drain snake before reporting the issue to the landlord. Tenants should not use chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes and create hazards.

• Requesting Professional Help:

  If the tenant's attempts to clear a clogged drain are unsuccessful, the tenant should contact the landlord or property management to request professional plumbing assistance.

• Cost Responsibility:

  The cost of professional plumbing services for drain issues caused by tenant negligence or misuse may be the responsibility of the tenant.

Dishwasher

Scrape food into the trash before loading dishes. Use only a tiny amount of liquid dishwasher detergent. Too much detergent can leave white film and etch glassware.

Do not use dishwasher pods. Pods force a mega-dose every cycle, which is more product than needed.

Garage Door Openers

• Sensor Alignment Issues and Resolution:

  The primary issue with garage door openers often revolves around the alignment of the sensors, which is crucial for the door to close safely. Tenants are responsible for keeping their garage door sensors aligned.

  To align the garage door sensors, pay attention to the indicator lights on them. Adjust them so that the light is steady and not blinking.

  It's common for the sensors to get bumped when moving garbage cans in and out of the garage. When the sensors aren't properly aligned, the garage door opener will initially attempt to close the door but then stop and blink the light about 10 times.

  If you encounter problems with the sensors, it's possible to override them by holding down the hardwired button for the garage door opener, usually located in the garage on the wall next to the door leading into the house. Keeping this button pressed throughout the door's operation will ensure that it closes, bypassing the sensor issue.

• Broken Garage Door Springs and Cables:

  If the garage door will not go up, the spring or cable may be broken, or the door may be frozen to the ground. Do not repeatedly force the opener. Disengage the opener if needed, try lifting by hand only if it is safe, and report the issue.

• Emergency release handle:

  Know where the emergency release handle is located. Use it only when needed and only when the door is stable and safe to move manually.

Refrigerator and freezer

• Air Circulation Importance:

  Do not overpack the refrigerator or freezer. Blocked airflow can cause poor cooling and frost problems.

Washing Machine

Do not overload the washer. Distribute laundry evenly to avoid shaking, imbalance, and strain during the spin cycle.

Use a small amount of liquid detergent. Too much detergent creates buildup, odors, and machine problems. Do not use laundry pods; they force a mega-dose every load, which is more product than needed.

For front-loading washers, leave the door open after use so the inside can dry. Fabric softener can add residue and contribute to odors.

Dryer

Properly using and maintaining your dryer is essential to ensure efficient and safe drying of your clothes. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

• Ensure Clothes Are Spun:

  Before placing clothes in the dryer, make sure they have undergone a proper spin cycle in the washing machine. This step helps remove excess water, ensuring efficient drying and preventing damage to the dryer.

• Proper Loading:

  Avoid overloading the dryer. Clothes need space to tumble freely, allowing hot air to circulate evenly. Overloading can lead to uneven drying and longer drying times.

• Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets:

  Using fabric softener and dryer sheets can leave residues on clothes and in the dryer. These residues may create a water-repelling effect on the dryer screen. It's best to not use these products and consider alternative methods to achieve desired softness or freshness.

Cleaning the Dryer Screen:

Periodically remove and clean the lint screen in your dryer. Lint buildup on the screen can reduce airflow and efficiency. Additionally, inspect the screen for any unusual coatings or residues that may affect its performance. If you notice anything unusual, clean it thoroughly.

Maintaining your dryer and following these guidelines can help ensure that your clothes are dried effectively, prevent potential damage to the dryer, and maintain its efficiency.

Sill cocks (garden hose bibs)

Winterizing outdoor sill cocks (also known as hose bibs or outdoor faucets) is essential to protect them from freezing temperatures during the winter months. When water freezes, it expands, and this expansion can cause pipes and fixtures to burst. Burst pipes can lead to extensive water damage and costly repairs.

• Hose Removal:

  Tenants should remove hoses from all sill cocks to prevent freezing and potential damage during the winter months. Even frost proof sill cocks are not protected from freezing when a hose filled with water is attached.

• Landlord Responsibility:

  Landlord is responsible for winterization. For shutting off and draining non-frost proof sill cocks for winter.

• Tenant Responsibility:

  Tenants should promptly report any leaks or issues with the sill cocks to the landlord. Timely reporting allows for necessary repairs to be made, preventing further damage.

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

How to Use Your Air Conditioner Efficiently

Using your air conditioner wisely will lower your electric bill, reduce energy consumption, and help extend the life of the equipment.

• Set a Reasonable Temperature:

  Set the thermostat to approximately 76°F.

  Lower settings do not cool the home faster. They only cause the air conditioner to run longer and consume more electricity.

  A home air conditioner is not like a car climate-control system. A car may mix warm and cold air to deliver air at the selected temperature. A home air conditioner does not do that. It runs at full cooling capacity until the house reaches the thermostat setting, then it gets a break. Setting the thermostat much lower only makes the system run longer, and on very hot days it may never get that break.

  Set the thermostat at a moderate, energy-efficient temperature during the heating season (around 68-72°F or 20-22°C). Avoid extreme temperature settings that can strain the system and increase heating costs.

• Cool the House at Night:

  Use the cooler evening and overnight hours to cool the house.

  Air conditioners are more energy efficient when the outdoor temperature is lower and use less electricity to provide the same amount of cooling.

  As the outdoor temperature rises, the air conditioner becomes less efficient and must use more electricity to remove the same amount of heat.

  Starting the day with a cooler house reduces the amount of cooling needed during the hottest part of the afternoon.

• Do Not Create Heat Indoors:

  Everything that uses electricity inside your home eventually becomes heat that the air conditioner must remove.

  When leaving the home:

  • Turn off lights.
  • Turn off televisions, computers, game consoles, and other electronics.
  • Turn off ceiling fans unless someone is in the room. Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms, and leaving them on in an empty home only wastes electricity and adds heat.
  • Avoid using ovens, clothes dryers, dishwashers, and other heat-producing appliances during the hottest part of the day whenever possible.

• Keep the Cool Air Inside:

  • Keep windows and exterior doors closed.
  • Close blinds and curtains on sunny windows.
  • Keep supply vents and return-air grilles clear of furniture and other obstructions.

• Filter Replacement:

  The landlord is responsible for regularly replacing or cleaning HVAC filters. If the tenant prefers to do this, it is suggested to buy MERV3 filters from Menards. The purpose of the air filter is to keep dust from caking on the furnace blower wheel and inner parts. The cheapo MERV1 filters will not protect the blower.

  Higher MERV ratings cause the following:

  • A greater load on the blower motor and increased electric bills.
  • Greater temperature differentials throughout the home, as result of poor air circulation.
  • Reduced airflow through the furnace and air conditioner.
  • Air conditioning system to Ice-up. Without enough airflow, the evaporator will turn into an ice block, blocking all airflow and the system will eventually shut itself down, possibly causing costly damage to the compressor.

• If the Air Conditioner Appears to Be Malfunctioning:

  If you encounter issues with your heating or air conditioning systems, please call your landlord. The companies who install and service HVAC systems like to place stickers with their phone numbers on them all over the utility room. Please do not call these phone numbers. By notifying your landlord, this helps streamline the maintenance process and ensures that the necessary repairs or servicing are carried out efficiently.

  Turn the air conditioner off immediately and notify Landlord if you notice:

  • Loud or unusual noises.
  • Burning odors.
  • Water leaking around the equipment.
  • Ice forming on the refrigerant lines or indoor unit.
  • Warm air coming from the vents.

  Continuing to operate a malfunctioning air conditioner can turn a minor repair into a major one.

• Indoor Air Quality:

  For everyday indoor air quality, the two biggest practical factors are:

  • Keep your house swept and vacuumed. Floors and upholstered furniture. Sitting down on the couch is like setting off a particulate bomb.
  • Keep windows closed during smoke, pollen, dust, or heavy traffic conditions, but do not seal the home airtight. The home still needs normal air exchange.

• Prevent Obstructions:

  Ensure that vents, registers, and air returns are not obstructed by furniture, curtains, or other items. Clearing these areas helps maintain efficient airflow.

  Tenants are encouraged to maintain open communication with the landlord or property management regarding any concerns or maintenance needs related to the air conditioning system.

Fireplace

• Wood-Burning Fireplaces:

  Wood-burning fireplaces are becoming less common due to safety concerns and the convenience of gas alternatives. If you're renting a property with a wood-burning fireplace, it's advisable not to use it. The flue (chimney pipe) in these fireplaces can deteriorate over time, leading to cracks that allow combustion gases to enter the house. Additionally, sparks or hot ashes can escape, posing a fire hazard to carpets, flooring, and potentially the entire house.

• Gas Fireplaces:

  Gas fireplaces are the preferred choice for safety and convenience. Tenants should learn how to safely operate gas fireplaces, including lighting the pilot light. There are instructional videos available to assist with this process.

• Maintenance:

  The inside of the glass can become dirty and cloudy over time. Cleaning the glass is essential for maintaining a clear view of the flames and ensuring the fireplace operates efficiently and safely. Tenants are responsible for keeping the fireplace glass clean.