Tenants
Tenant Information
- All individuals older than 18 must be legally named on the lease.
- Individuals under 18 will be listed as occupants.
- Lease terms are typically 12 months.
- Upon lease expiration, tenancy automatically transitions to a month-to-month agreement.
- Tenants must submit written notice 30 days prior to moving out.
- Tenants are obligated to maintain the property’s cleanliness at all times.
- Tenants are accountable for the behavior of their guests and any permitted pets.
- Tenants are required to replace air filters monthly, with no exceptions.
- The property must be returned in the same condition as it was at move-in.
- After the initial 30 days of occupancy, tenants are responsible for clearing clogged drain lines.
- No personal belongings may be moved into the property prior to the lease start date.
Deposit Information
- Deposits are non-refundable if the tenant decides against proceeding with the tenancy.
- Deposits will be refunded if the owner or Reilly’s Real Estate Brokerage llc opts not to rent to the tenant prior to the tenant taking possession of the property.
- Full payment of all deposits is required before the tenant can take possession of the property—no exceptions.
- Pet deposits are a one-time, non-refundable fee; additional charges may be assessed if the pet damages the property or causes disturbances.
- Deposits must be paid via certified funds, such as cash, cashier’s check, money order, or electronic funds transfer (e.g., Zelle).
- Deposits can secure the property for a maximum of 30 days. If the tenant fails to take possession within this timeframe, the deposit will be forfeited, and a new deposit will be required to reserve the property again.
Pet Information
Common Pet Requirements in Texas Rental Properties
Pet Approval Process
We require tenants to disclose and register their pets before move-in. must provide details such as the pet’s type, breed, size, age, and vaccination records.
Restrictions on Type, Breed, or Number
- Limit 2 pets per unit.
- No loud aggressive pets
- No fish talks larger than 2 gallons
- No restricted pets by the city
Pet Deposits and Fees
Pet Deposit: A nonrefundable amount to cover potential pet-related damage will be assessed and collected before move in. There may be monthly fees added to rent depending on owners requirements
Vaccination and Health Requirements
Proof of current vaccinations (e.g., rabies) is required.
Behavioral and Maintenance Rules
- Tenants are responsible for cleaning up pet waste, both inside and outside the property.
- Excessive noise (e.g., barking) or aggressive behavior may lead to penalties or eviction if it violates lease terms.
Damage Responsibilities
Tenants are liable for any pet-related damage beyond normal wear and tear (e.g., scratched floors, chewed fixtures, or urine stains). This may be deducted from the pet deposit or security deposit if insufficient.
Exceptions: Service and Emotional Support Animals
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), service animals (trained to assist with disabilities) and emotional support animals (ESAs, providing comfort for mental health conditions) are not considered pets.
Tenant Removal Policy
- Removing a tenant from the lease requires agreement of all parties involved.
- The owner retains the authority to reject any tenant removal request.
- If the request is approved, a $100 fee must be paid in advance.
- Any tenant departing the property forfeits all claims to the security deposit. Disputes or discrepancies must be resolved among tenants themselves.
Late Fee Policy
- Rent is due on the 1st of each month.
- If the 1st is a weekend or holiday, payment must be made prior to that date. -
- A 3-day grace period applies for late fees until the 3rd of the month, with no penalties. - Starting on the 4th, late fees are applied and increase rapidly. Late fees are non-negotiable and will not be waived.
Move-Out Expectations
Vacate by Lease End Date
Tenants must fully move out, including all personal belongings, by the lease termination date or the agreed-upon move-out date if on a month-to-month basis (typically with 30 days’ written notice).
Keys, garage remotes, gate cards, or other access items must be returned to the landlord or property manager.
Notify Landlord
Provide written notice of intent to vacate as required by the lease (e.g., 30 days), even if the lease is expiring.
Leave Property In Original Condition
The property should be returned in the same condition as when tenant took possession, barring normal wear and tear (e.g., minor scuffs on walls from furniture movement).
Any tenant-caused damage (e.g., holes in walls, pet stains) must be repaired or will be deducted from the security deposit.
Remove All Belongings
All personal items, furniture, trash, and debris must be removed from the property, including closets, storage areas, and outdoor spaces like patios or yards.
Items left behind may incur disposal fees charged to the tenant.
Utilities and Mail
Arrange to disconnect or transfer utilities (e.g., electric, water, gas) out of the tenant’s name by the move-out date, unless otherwise specified.
Update mailing address with the post office to avoid leaving mail at the property.
Important
Security Deposit:
Cleaning and repairs impact the refundable portion of the deposit.
Move-Out Cleaning Requirements
General Cleaning
- Sweep, vacuum, and mop all floors to remove dirt, dust, and debris.
- Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, shelves, window sills, and baseboards, to remove smudges, dust, or grime.
- Clean interior and exterior of cabinets and drawers, ensuring no food crumbs or residue remain.
Kitchen
- Clean all appliances provided by the landlord (e.g., oven, stove, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher):
- Remove grease and food splatter from stovetop and oven.
- Defrost and wipe down refrigerator/freezer, leaving it empty and plugged in (unless instructed otherwise).
- Run dishwasher empty to ensure it’s clean.
- Scrub sink and faucet to remove stains or water marks.
Bathrooms
- Clean and disinfect toilet, sink, bathtub/shower, and mirrors.
- Remove soap scum, mildew, or hard water stains from fixtures and tiles.
- Sweep and mop floors, ensuring no hair or debris remains.
Walls and Doors
- Wipe down walls and doors to remove fingerprints, smudges, or marks.
- Remove small nails, hooks, or tape used for decorations, and fill minor holes with spackling paste if required by the lease. Large damages (e.g., significant holes) may need professional repair.
Windows and Blinds
- Clean interior windows and glass doors to remove streaks or fingerprints.
- Dust or wipe down blinds or window treatments provided by the landlord.
Floors
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly; professional carpet cleaning may be required if specified in the lease or if pet damage/stains are present.
- Mop hard surfaces (tile, laminate, vinyl) to remove dirt and spills.
Trash and Debris
- Remove all trash from the property and place it in designated bins or arrange for pickup.
- Ensure trash cans are empty and cleaned if they belong to the property.
Yard/Exterior (If Applicable)
- Mow lawn, trim bushes, and remove weeds if yard maintenance was the tenant’s responsibility per the lease.
- Clear patios, balconies, or decks of debris, furniture, or pet waste.
- Remove any pet-related items (e.g., toys, kennels) from the yard.
Pet-Specific Cleaning (If Applicable)
- Address pet hair, odors, or stains on carpets, floors, or furniture (if provided).
- Sanitize areas where pets frequented to eliminate lingering smells or messes.
- Professional cleaning may be required if pet damage exceeds normal wear and tear.
Air Filters and Maintenance
- Replace air filters with new ones,
- Report any maintenance issues (e.g., leaks, broken fixtures) before leaving, though repairs are typically the landlord’s responsibility unless caused by tenant negligence.