Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: The security deposit is equal to one month’s rent. Gutow Management truly does want our renters to recover all the security deposit. It is simply up to you. The security deposit is used toward damages that may have occurred throughout the year. The amount of damages is then subtracted from the security deposit. A list of itemized damages and the cost to make repairs is made and the security deposit is mailed out in one check to the house manager. It is the group’s responsibility then to divide up the damages. The key to receiving full refund is to leave a clean house with nothing left behind as it was when you moved in.
Answer: No, the security deposit can not be used towards any rent owed.
Answer: Unless we have had the proper time to ensure a proper house, (ex. clean, repaint, steam clean/replace carpet, etc.) you will not be able to move in. If the house is, however, ready and you would like to move in, we will attempt to accommodate you. Please call and check. If we have not finished what needs to be completed, we will take your number and call you when the house is ready to be moved in.
Answer: Rent is due in tri payments. The first four months are due at move in. In order to receive the keys to your house the first rent must be paid in full. The next payment is due postmarked on or before December 1st. The final and last payment is due postmarked on or before April 1st. Rent must be paid in one certified check form from the house manager.
Answer: Your lease states that you need our written approval to sublease. Remember our lease is with you, not the potential subleasor. We have had issues arise with sublease damages to properties and that falls back on the people whose names are on the lease, not the sub leasers.
Answer: Any maintenance issues must be fixed by our preferred workers to ensure the maintenance is properly taken care of. Please call us if there are any issues. We would rather hear from you than not. Not taking care of any maintenance issue quickly could result in major repairs needed.
Answer: Gutow Management encourages and gives our renters the first option to renew their lease. Our hope is that you decide to stay with us for your entire college career. We will sign a new lease and your security deposit will transfer over. If someone is no longer wishing to stay in the house and you already have found someone to replace him/her, a new lease will still need to be signed. The individual filling in for the person leaving is responsible to pay his/her portion of the security deposit as we will transfer that over to next year.
Answer: Yes. Although we generally try to give a 24-hour rule, should we believe that there is over occupancy, maintenance issue need attending we will enter if needed. Ex. If smoke is coming from the house and no one answers the door, we will enter without warning. Your house also has an annual inspection that needs to be made once a year. We will know the date and inform our tenants, but we might not know the exact time. Gutow Management and the City of East Lansing will need to be able to enter all rooms, so make sure that rooms are all unlocked on inspection day.
