Tenant Hub
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Welcome to Asset Upkeep! We take pride in delivering a professional and hassle-free experience for our tenants. Choosing to lease through us means enjoying the peace of mind that comes with expertly managed properties, prompt maintenance, and a team dedicated to ensuring that your rental experience is always convenient, secure, and stress-free. Join us and experience the advantage.
Current Tenant Helpful Links
Tenant Portal
Login to view your account, pay rent, send us a message or submit a maintenance request.
Maintenance Tips
We've created a guide with some troubleshooting tips to help with common maintenance issues.
Submit Notice to Vacate
Please complete this form to give notice you're vacating.
Questions
If you have non-maintenance related questions or can't find the answer on our site, ask it here.
Current & Future Residents FAQ
To our valued current and future residents, we invite you to explore this page. We've curated a comprehensive guide to address your most common queries, providing insights from the application process to various aspects of tenancy.
To facilitate a seamless and mutually beneficial rental experience, we've outlined transparent tenant screening criteria. While meeting these criteria is a positive step, it's important to note that approval is subject to various factors.
If you can't find the answers you're looking for, don't hesitate to reach out.
- Applications
- Rental Criteria & Eligibility
- Lease Terms
- Financial: Rent, Deposits & Other Funds
- Renter's Insurance Requirements
- Maintenance
- Move-In Procedure
- Move-Out Procedure
- Early Lease Terminations & Breaking a Lease
- Fair Housing
You can submit your application by clicking the Available Homes button on this page. Click on the property and apply through the link.
Applicants should refer to the Applications and Rental Criteria tabs for answers to frequently asked questions.
At Asset Upkeep, we are committed to ensuring a fair and transparent tenant selection process. Our screening criteria is designed to assess applicants objectively and consistently.
Complete the Following Steps
- Submit Application
- Complete the application form accurately and honestly.
- Include necessary supporting documents, such as proof of income and rental history.
- Review Process:
- Our team will thoroughly review your application against the established criteria.
- Notification of approval or denial will be provided within a specified timeframe.
Please note that categories are not rigid and each application is reviewed individually, taking into account the unique circumstances of each applicant. If you have questions or need further clarification about your specific category, our team is here to assist you. Our goal is to provide a fair and comprehensive assessment for all applicants.
**If your application is denied you may be able to provide additional information or clarification for reconsideration.**
The following is provided to help applicants understand the risk categories used in tenant screening.
Low Risk
- Stable Financial Foundation: Applicants in this category normally have income that is more than three times the monthly rent. This demonstrates a stable financial foundation, increasing the likelihood of consistent and on-time rent payments.
- Positive Rental History: Low-risk applicants present positive rental references rom previous landlords, showcasing a history of responsible tenancy. This may include timely rent payments and adherence to lease agreements.
- Strong Credit History: Applicants in this category generally have a good credit score with minimal outstanding debts, indicating a history of financial responsibility.
- Clean Criminal Background: Low-risk applicants typically have no history of violent or property related offenses, contributing to a safe and secure community environment.
Moderate Risk
- Reasonable Financial Stability: Monthly income for moderate-risk applicants falls between two and three times the monthly rent. While this demonstrates financial stability, there may be considerations for potential budgeting challenges.
- Mixed Rental History: Moderate-risk applicants might have a rental history with minor issues, such as occasional late payments or minor lease violations. These instances are taken into account during evaluation.
- Moderate Credit Issues: Applicants in this category may have moderate credit issues with manageable debts. The screening process considers the nature and impact of these credit challenges.
- Minor Non-Violent Criminal Offenses: Moderate-risk applicants may have a history of minor, non-violent criminal offenses, which are carefully assessed in the context of overall application details.
High Risk
- Potential Financial Strain: High-risk applicants typically have a monthly income less than two times the monthly rent, indicating potential financial strain. This may pose challenges in meeting rental obligations consistently.
- History Of Lease Issues: High-risk applicants may have a history of evictions or serious lease violations, which are critical factors affecting the evaluation.
- Poor Credit History: Applicants in this category often have a poor credit score with significant outstanding debts, signaling potential financial challenges.
- Serious Criminal Offenses: High-risk applicants may have a history of serious criminal offenses, which can pose potential risks to the community. These offenses are carefully considered in the screening process.
- Application fees are $65 per person aged 18+.
- Application fees are NONREFUNDABLE. We use a third party company for the screening portion and once an applicant submits the application it starts the screening process immediately.
- If there are multiple applications in your party, all applications must be completed and paid before we can start processing your party’s applications.
- Example: If a wife submits her application but her husband’s application is incomplete, we won’t start processing the wife’s application until the husband completes his.
- Completed applications are processed as they are received and paid. We DO NOT process on a first come first serve basis. This means it is possible for multiple applications to be conditionally approved at the same time and presented to the landlord for final approval. Final selection will be dependent upon meeting all rental criteria and best terms for the landlord.
- Applications are processed during our normal operating business hours Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Applications received after hours, or the end of the business day will start processing on the following operating business day.
- Weekend applications will be processed starting Monday.
- Applications received on holidays will be processed on the following business day.
- Average processing time is 2 business days but is dependent on receiving completed applications and any requested documentation.
- Incomplete applications or delays with receiving rental or employment verifications may also cause delays in the application process.
- A full credit history will be pulled for each applicant.
- Lower credit scores may require a larger security deposit.
- Applications with credit scores under 550 will be automatically declined.
- Bankruptcy status and age of bankruptcy may impact application acceptance.
- Tenant provided reports are NOT accepted.
Key Criteria for Evaluation:
- Credit History
- Low Risk: Good credit score, minimal outstanding debts indicating low debt to income.
- Moderate Risk: Minor issues reported, such as late payments or small collections.
- High Risk: History of evictions, past judgements from prior rentals, or serious lease violations.
- A criminal background check is required for every person 18+ living in the home.
- Having a felony is not an automatic rejection; the time of the offense and subsequent history are considered.
- A history of violent crimes, sex offenses, domestic violence, or drug-related offenses will result in automatic denial.
- For any non violent offenses, details about the type and age of offenses may be provided for landlord to further review.
Key Criteria for Evaluation
- Criminal Background
- Low Risk: No criminal history.
- Moderate Risk: Minor criminal offenses, non-violent history, older offenses.
- High Risk: Serious criminal offenses, violent offenses, recent offenses or offenses that pose a potential threat to the community.
Guarantors/Co-Signers are considered on a per-property basis.
- Require landlord approval.
- An increased security deposit may be requested.
- Guarantors are only considered for income or credit history-related denials only.
- Only one guarantor per household is allowed.
- The income for guarantors must typically be in excess of the 3x rental amount as they have to be able to cover their own housing in addition to the applicant’s property in case of default.
- Photo ID must be provided when submitting the lease application.
- ID must be current and government issued.
- Expired ID’s are not accepted.
- Total NET income must meet or exceed 3 times the monthly rent as a minimum.
- Self Employed applicants must submit 2 most recent tax returns.
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on tax returns must meet the income requirement.
- At least 2 years’ stable employment history is required.
- Unverifiable income will not be considered.
- In some cases, bank statements, retirement or social security statements may be considered.
Key Criteria for Evaluation:
- Income Stability:
- Low Risk: Monthly income is at least three (3) times the monthly rent.
- Moderate Risk: Monthly income is between two (2) and three (3) times the monthly rent.
- High Risk: Monthly income is less than two (2) times the monthly rent.
The minimum lease term is typically 12 months unless otherwise agreed to by landlord.
Key Criteria for Evaluation:
Short-Term Lease
- May affect risk category, as shorter terms can pose unique challenges.
Long-Term Lease
- Generally considered lower risk, showing stability and commitment. Landlord approval required for leases over 12 months.
- The property is accepted in “As-Is” condition.
- Any requests for property changes must be submitted in writing with the application.
- Submitting a request will be submitted to the landlord for consideration but does not guarantee approval of the request by the landlord.
- A full credit history will be pulled for each applicant.
- Lower credit scores may require a larger security deposit.
- Applications with credit scores under 550 will be automatically declined.
- Bankruptcy status and age of bankruptcy may impact application acceptance.
- Tenant provided reports are NOT accepted.
Key Criteria for Evaluation:
- Rental History
- Low Risk: Positive rental references from previous landlords.
- Medium Risk: Minor issues reported, such as late payments.
- High Risk: History of evictions or serious lease violations.
- Unless otherwise specified in the marketing of the property, the majority of our leases are at minimum 12 months.
- Longer term leases may be available but are property specific and will require landlord approval.
- Leases shorter than 12 months will require owner approval and will have an added premium to the monthly rate for the convenience of the shorter lease term.
- Month-to-month may be an option for some properties but will also include an added premium for the convenience of the short-term lease.
- No more than 2 occupants per bedroom unless otherwise provided by applicable state law.
We understand that pets are an integral part of your family. We welcome responsible pet owners and have established clear guidelines to ensure a comfortable living environment for all residents. Please review our pet policy and criteria.
- General Pet Criteria:
- Pet Types: We generally accept common household pets, such as cats and dogs. Please inquire about specific restrictions on exotic pets or aquariums.
- Number of Pets: The number of pets allowed per unit may be limited. Check the property listing for details or contact our office to confirm.
- Breed Restrictions: Certain breeds may be subject to restrictions. The following are generally considered aggressive breeds: Pit Bull, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, Akita, Mastiff, Great Dane, Malamute, Husky, Cane Corso, Chow Chow, Presa Canario, Wolf Hybrid, or any mixed breed made up of these breeds.
- Health and Vaccinations: All pets must be in good health and up to date on vaccinations. Documentation from a licensed veterinarian may be required.
- Pet Deposit & Pet Rent:
- Pet deposits are due at the time of move-in.
- Pet rent is due at the same time rent payments are due.
- Pets are approved on a per property basis and with final landlord approval.
- Serive Animals & Emotional Support Animals (ESAs):
- Service Animals: Animals specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities.
- Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Animals providing emotional support to individuals with documented mental health conditions.
- Reasonable Accommodation: We provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities who require service animals or emotional support animals. Any accommodation must be within local and/or municipal guidelines.
- During the application process, tenants must provide supporting and verifiable documentation for Service or ESAs.
- Pet deposits and/or pet rent are not applicable to Service or ESAs provided full and proper, verifiable documentation is provided during the application process or during the lease if added at a later time.
- Important Notes:
- Property-Specific Policies: Pet policies vary by property. Before applying, confirm pet acceptance by checking the property listing or contacting our office.
- Nonrefundable Application Fees: Application fees are nonrefundable so ensure the property accepts pets before submitting your application.
If you have any other specific question about pet deposits, pet rent, and general pet criteria, please reach out to us.
Tenants are required to carry renter’s insurance coverage during the full term of the lease.
- Minimum liability coverage $300,000. **This is not the same as personal property coverage.**
- Asset Upkeep must also be added as an interested party.
- A copy of the declarations page must be provided prior to the move-in date to avoid any delays with getting access to the property. Keys will not be released if the renter’s insurance paperwork has not been provided.
Smoking of any kind is not allowed at any time in or on the property.
Our office prioritizes transparency and compliance in our dealings with security deposits. Our policies align with the requirements set forth in the Texas Property Code to ensure a fair and secure process. Here’s what you need to know:
- Purpose: The security deposit is collected to safeguard against any potential damages to a property beyond normal wear and tear.
- Amount: The amount of the security deposit will vary depending on whether an applicant is a low risk or high risk tenant. Risk factor is determined by the rental application criteria. The minimum amount that will ever be required is the equivalent of one full month’s rent.
- Refund: Upon termination of the lease, we aim to return your deposit within the 30 days allowed by the Texas Property Code.
- Deductions: After your move-out, our office will conduct a walkthrough of the property. This will be compared to the move-in inventory and condition document you completed. Deductions may be made for tenant caused repairs beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, and/or other expenses outlined in the lease agreement.
THE SECURITY DEPOSIT MAY NOT BE USED FOR THE LAST MONTH’S RENT.
If you have any questions about your security deposit or the deductions made, please contact our office. We are here to provide clarity and address your concerns promptly.
**If you are contesting any deductions, please have supporting documentation on hand and ready as that may help with a quicker resolution.**
- Pet Deposit: A pet deposit is required to cover potential damages caused by pets that exceeds normal wear and tear.
- Amount: The amount varies and is determined based on the number and types of pets.
- Refundable Nature: This is property specific. Individual landlords may choose to make all, part, or none of the deposit refundable. This information is available on the individual listing for the property and will also be stated in the lease.
- Pet Rent: In addition to the pet deposit, a monthly pet rent may be applicable. This fee helps cover additional wear and tear associated with pets. Pet rent is used to address the impact of pets on the property, including cleaning and maintenance.
Methods of Paying Rent
- Electronic/Online : Rents can be paid electronically through your tenant portal and is the preferred method of paying rent.
- You will have the option of paying by ACH or credit card.
- Processing Fees: Please note credit card payments typically charge a processing fee based on a percentage of the transaction. ACH Fees will have a small fixed dollar amount and are generally much lower than credit card processing fees. All processing fees are the responsibility of the tenant and non refundable.
- You will have the option of paying by ACH or credit card.
- In Person Payments: Payments can be made in person and delivered to our office. Please note there is a $25 check handling fee for this. Please include the handling fee in your total payment.
- ACCEPTED: Cashier’s checks and money orders payable to Asset Upkeep
- NOT ACCEPTED: personal checks, cash
- Due Date: Rent payment must be made by the date specified in your lease. If you are making an in person payment, it must be received in our office no later than 5pm of the date that it’s due. We do not have a dropbox for after hours drop off.
- Late Fees: Payments not received by the due date will incur late fees. Please refer to your lease for specific amounts.
- Payments returned as insufficient funds will incur late fees as specified by your lease in addition to any Insufficient Fee that may be charged to our office as a result of the returned payment. The fees will be added to your balance.
Processing Fees: Please note credit card payments typically charge a processing fee based on a percentage of the transaction. ACH Fees will have a small fixed dollar amount and are generally much lower than credit card processing fees. All processing fees are the responsibility of the tenant and non refundable.
Late Fees: Payments not received by the due date will incur late fees. Please refer to your lease for specific amounts. Payments returned as insufficient funds will incur late fees as specified by your lease until the rent has been paid. If an electronic payment has been returned as insufficient we will require the full payment to be made in certified funds.
Insufficient Funds or Returned Payments: Payments returned as insufficient funds will incur late fees as specified by your lease in addition to any Insufficient Fee that may be charged to our office as a result of the returned payment. The fees will be added to your balance.
**Once an electronic payment has been declined twice, tenants will be required to deliver any future payments in certified funds for the remainder of the lease term. Check handling fees apply.**
All new residents must pay a one time $200 admin fee.
- This is different and separate from the application fee.
- The fee includes set up of tenant portal, new resident orientation, and walkthrough with agent to document the condition of the home at move-in.
- Fee must be paid by the move-in date.
All leases require tenants to carry renter’s insurance throughout the full term of the lease and any subsequent renewal period. Documentation must be submitted prior to the move in date.
Personal Liability Coverage
$300,000 minimum
Personal Property Coverage
Tenants are able to set personal property coverage at any amount they would like.
Additional Interest Party
Asset Upkeep must be added as an interested party.
Asset Upkeep
2451 W Grapevine Mills Circle
Suite 505
Grapevine, TX 76051
Deductible
The deductible must not exceed $500.
Lapses or Cancellations Of Renter’s Insurance
Tenants must provide updated proof of renter’s insurance within 24 hours of being notified of cancellation.
**Failure to maintain renter’s insurance is a lease violation.**
- Prior to submitting a maintenance request, tenants can visit the Maintenance Tips & Troubleshooting page. This page has answers to some of the most common maintenance issues. If none of these resolves your maintenance issue, then please go ahead and submit a formal maintenance request.
- All maintenance requests should be submitted through the tenant portal.
- Emergency requests should be submitted through the portal, but tenants must also call our office and speak to someone regarding the maintenance request.
Upon approval of your application, completion of the lease signing, and collection of the security deposit, we’ll be able to coordinate your move-in.
All these requirements must be confirmed before the move-in date for key release. Failure to provide this information will cause a delay in obtaining keys. Rent will not be adjusted for tenant-caused delays in completing these items. No exceptions.
Items Due by Move-In Date:
Rent Payment (first full month’s rent):
Move-ins after the 1st require payment for the first full month of rent at move-in. Prorated rent is then due on the 1st of the following month.
For example, with a Jan 15 move-in date
The first full month’s rent for February will be paid on or before Jan 15
The prorated rent for Jan 15-31 will be paid on Feb 1
Pet Deposit & Any Pet Rent
Renter’s Insurance:
- Show Asset Upkeep as an additional insured and meet all other requirements (refer to the Renter’s Insurance tab for details).
Utilities Confirmation:
- Please provide confirmation or proof that you have switched utilities to your name.
** If paying electronically, ensure the payment is made at least 5-7 business days before the move-in date to allow sufficient time for the payment to clear. If the move-in date is less than 5 business days, contact our office to arrange a wire transfer or bring certified funds (cashier’s check) to the move-in orientation.**
At your orientation our agent will complete a walkthrough of the property with you. During this session, we’ll cover the process of submitting maintenance requests, discuss property-specific instructions, and address any inquiries you may have about your new home. Additionally, we’ll outline your responsibilities as a tenant, ensuring you’re well-informed and comfortable in your new living space.
Orientations are scheduled Monday-Friday between the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Tenants must document the property’s condition at the time of move-in by completing and returning the provided inventory & condition form. This form must be returned within the specified timeframe stated in the lease. This information will be utilized during the move-out to assess any tenant caused damages or necessary repairs. Failure to submit the form within the specified timeframe will result in the assumption that the property was in perfect condition without any defects.
Keys will be provided once all move-in conditions are met and will be made available to you on your move-in date. In cases where the orientation is scheduled on a different date or more than 4 hours before your move-in date, access information for retrieving the key from the lockbox will be sent to you.
Rest assured, the locks are routinely rekeyed after the prior tenant vacates, ensuring that new tenants receive a completely new set of keys. Please be aware that rekeying involves maintaining the existing locks and hardware while updating the lock cylinders to a brand new, never-before-used key. In rare instances where a property wasn’t rekeyed prior, this process will be completed within the first seven days of a new tenant moving in. If applicable, the locksmith will coordinate with you to schedule this rekeying service.
Use our website to send formal notice of your intention to vacate your property at the end of your lease term. Our office will confirm receipt or your notice. If it has been more than one business day without acknowledgement please contact our office by phone. (214) 814-0026
If you are vacating the property early but not surrendering possession until the final day of your lease term, keep in mind you are still responsible for the property. This is especially crucial to understand during the winter months when extreme weather may impact the property. Make sure you are routinely checking the property to ensure there’s no maintenance needs or emergencies.
**Utilties MUST BE KEPT ON through the last day of your lease.**
Once you have vacated the home, please contact us to confirm you have moved out. If there is a lockbox installed on the home, we’ll provide instructions for you to leave keys. If no lockbox is present, we’ll provide instructions where to leave keys.
Once you have moved out, our office will conduct a move-out inspection of the home. We’ll compare the condition of the home to the condition at move-in using the inventory and condition form you completed. The notes will be compared and used to determine what will be charged against the security deposit.
Once all charges have been finalized we’ll send out the security deposit itemization.
If there is a refund:
The refund will be mailed out by check and made payable to all tenants on the lease. If you want the payment made out to an individual tenant, all other tenants must send us written notice authorizing us to send out the check this way. All tenants must agree for the check to be made out to an individual otherwise it will be made out to all tenants on one check.
If damages EXCEED the deposit amount:
You will receive an itemized accounting and an invoice for overages. All tenants will be responsible for this amount. Failure to pay will result in the amount being sent to collections which will have a negative impact on your credit and rental history.
Moving out can be a smooth process when you take the right steps. While following these guidelines increases the likelihood of receiving most of your deposit back, it’s important to note that adherence does not guarantee a full refund. Here are some tips to optimize your chances:
Cleaning
Clean the property thoroughly, including inside cabinets, closets, appliance interiors/exteriors, and ceiling fans. Make sure to clean bathroom toilets, showers and drawers and remove any residual hair or mildew.
Do not leave any furniture or personal items behind.
Do not leave behind any boxes, trash or bulk items. Note that if bulk trash is left out and not picked up by the city, the expense will be billed to you and deducted from the deposit.
Carpet Cleaning
The carpet must be professionally cleaned. Service must be handled by a professional cleaning company. If a pet resided at the property, the carpet must be treated for pet odors as well. Renting a machine and doing it yourself does not meet the requirements of your lease.
Landscaping
Lawn must be mowed. Shrubs must be trimmed. Shrub and flower beds must be free of any grass and weeds.
Light Bulbs
Tenants are responsible for expendable items such as light bulbs and batteries. Replace any burned out bulbs that need replacing. If a fixture is not working, make sure you submit a maintenance request for the item.
Air Filters & A/C Vents
Air filters should be replaced at move-out. If you replaced with a new filter at the start of the month, it is recommended to go ahead and replace. If possible, write the date you changed the filter on the fiter.
Utilities
Must be kept on through the entirety of your lease, regardless of occupancy.
Nail Holes, Touch Up Paint, Cosmetic Blemishes On Walls
We do not recommend touching up paint or filling in nail holes on your own. If you choose to correct any paint damages, holes, scuffs, etc, and it doesn’t match or leaves areas of flashy spots or mismatched texture, you will be responsible for the expense to return these items to their original condition. Even if you use your own vendor, they may not restore the property to its previous state. If you want to address these issues beforehand you may contact our office and have one of our vendors make these repairs.
Keys, Garage Remotes, Fan Remotes
These items may be left in a kitchen drawer unless directed otherwise. Failure to return will result in replacements being charged to you at move-out. Replacement of these devices also requires having a vendor program the devices.
Temperature Settings
During the winter, please set the heat to a minimum temperature of 60 degrees.
During the summer/spring, please set the air conditioning to 75 degrees.
Receipts
If you are required to submit receipts, please leave those on the kitchen counter.
**While these steps contribute to a positive move-out experience, it’s essential to recognize that certain factors may impact the refund amount. Additionally, using outside vendors may seem cost-effective, but it’s crucial to consider the quality of work. If your vendor does a subpar repair, it means we’ll have to send someone out to do it correctly at your expense. Our trusted vendors are available for repairs, and contacting us for an estimate ensures that the job is done to the required standard. Feel free to reach out to us for guidance and assistance throughout the process.**
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may prompt tenants to contemplate early termination of their lease. It’s crucial to note that terminating the lease prematurely can result in serious legal consequences, additional fees, and adverse effects on your credit history, potentially impacting future rental prospects. Generally, tenants are not entitled to early termination of the lease due to various reasons, including voluntary or involuntary job or school transfers, changes in marital status, loss of employment, loss of co-tenants, changes in health, purchase of property, or death, unless covered by an early termination clause or statutory rights under the Texas Property Code.
Circumstances For Terminating Without Penalties:
- Texas Property Code Special Statutory Rights: The Texas Property Code provides special statutory rights allowing tenants to terminate the lease early in specific situations, such as family violence, military deployment or transfer, certain sex offenses or stalking, and the death of a tenant (single occupancy).
- Early Termination Clause: Our standard lease does not include early termination clauses, but they may be added with landlord approval. Early termination clauses typically involve a monetary prerequisite, specific notice requirements, and may necessitate tenants to be in good standing. If you have such a clause, refer to your lease for details.
If you are uncertain about the termination guidelines or have questions, please contact us. We’re here to discuss your situation and explore possible solutions.
Tenants seeking early termination under the statutory rights outlined in the Texas Property Code must provide documented evidence to support their request. Proper documentation ensures compliance with legal requirements and facilitates a smooth process for both parties. The “tenant” is typically defined as the person who is legally and financially obligated under the lease. The term “occupant” means a person who has the landlord’s consent to occupy a dwelling but has no obligation to pay the rent for the dwelling. Occupants are normally listed as just occupants on the lease.
Victim Of Family Violence:
Texas law allows tenants to terminate a lease early if they or other occupants are a victim of family violence.
- Documentation Required: Court order, police report, or documentation from a medical professional affirming family violence status.
- For more information about the types of situations covered by this provision, Tenant is advised to review § 92.016, Texas Property Code
Sex Offenses or Stalking:
Tenants or occupants who are victims of certain sex offenses or stalking are permitted to terminate their lease early.
- Documentation Required: Court order, police report, or relevant legal documentation establishing the occurrence of sex offenses or stalking.
- For more information about the types of situations covered by this provision, Tenant is advised to review § 92.0161, Texas Property Code
Tenant Death:
If the tenant was the only occupant of the unit and they die before the lease expires, someone representing the deceased tenant’s estate may be able to terminate the agreement without penalties.
- Documentation Required: Death certificate or legal documentation confirming the tenant’s death.
- For more information about the types of situations covered by this provision, Tenant is advised to review § 92.0162, Texas Property Code
Military Deployment or Transfer:
Tenants who are members of the military may be eligible for early lease termination due to deployment or a change of station.
- Documentation Required: Official military orders detailing deployment or transfer.
- For more information about the types of situations covered by this provision, Tenant is advised to review § 92.017, Texas Property Code
**NOTICE TO VACATE is still required to be given. At minimum, a 30 day notice is required. The only exception to this is in the case of family violence where the offense was committed by someone also living in the rented premises. Notice must be in writing and submitted through formal channels as specified in the lease.**
Early Termination Clause
For those tenants wanting to invoke an early termination clause in their lease, the specific conditions and terms governing the termination will be clearly defined in the lease agreement. These must be satisfied before you will be released from your lease obligation and lease liability. Most early termination clauses have a termination fee as well as notice requirements that must be satisfied in addition to the responsibilities outlined in the lease.
We understand that sometimes unforeseen circumstances may lead to the need to break a lease. It’s important to recognize a lease break brings financial implications and can result in hardship for both the tenant and property owner. As you consider initiating a “lease break”, please keep in mind that landlords rely on the stability of leases to maintain their property investments. A lease break not only disrupts your housing plans but also impacts the property owner’s financial stability, leading to unexpected costs such as make-ready expenses, marketing fees, legal fees and the effort required to find a new tenant. We understand the challenges this may pose, and we appreciate your cooperation in minimizing the impact on both parties. Communication is key, and we are committed to working with you to prepare the home and attempt to mitigate costs.
How Do I Start The “Lease Break” Process?
To initiate a lease break, tenants must follow the standard lease procedure outlined in the lease agreement for giving proper notice. This involves providing a written notice to vacate within the specified timeframe. Once you have provided your notice and we have acknowledged receipt of it, we will work with you to coordinate the marketing of the property and steps to get it ready for a new tenant.
What Fees Do I owe?
Tenants remain legally responsible for the full lease term until a new tenant is secured or the lease term concludes, whichever occurs first.
- Security Deposit: Breaking the lease results in an automatic forfeiture of the security deposit. Your deposit will be forfeited, but a complete move-out inspection and security deposit accounting will still be conducted. Should damages exceed the forfeited deposit, you will be responsible for the overage costs. Failure to pay may result in collections, credit bureau reporting and/or legal action being taken against you.
- Timely Rent Payments: Pay rent on time to avoid late fees. If a new tenant moves in during a paid month, you may be entitled to a prorated refund of rent for that month.
- Marketing Fees: Costs involved in marketing the home for rent. Typically, a percentage of the total monthly rent but may include other costs involved with getting the home leased out to a new tenant.
- Make-Ready Costs: A make-ready is the process of making repairs to the home to return it to it’s prior move-in condition and to prepare it for a new tenant to take posession.
- Legal Fees: Costs associated with property inspections, sending unpaid tenant balances to collections, legal filings, etc.
What Other Responsibilities Do I Have?
Your responsibilities to the home and to the lease do not change when you break your lease early. Refer to your lease if needed.
- Maintaining Utilities: Even if you’ve moved out, maintain utilities until a new tenant’s move-in date. You’ll be informed to terminate services when a new tenant signs a lease.
- Property Condition: Ensure the property is in good condition and show-ready, coordinating showings, and managing lawn maintenance. If you are vacating the area, it is very important that you make accommodations for the property to be routinely checked. You will need to ensure maintenance is reported as needed and that no issues present themselves which could result in further damage to the property. Failure to report damages or needed maintenace is a lease violation.
- Renter’s Insurance: You are still responsible for maintaining coverage. Remember the liability coverage covers you in the case of any tenant caused damages. Failure to report damages can be considered tenant negligence and as a result, tenant caused damages.
How Long Will It Take To Lease The Home?
Unfortunately, there is no clear and easy answer to this question. Several factors impact market conditions such as time of the year, interest in the home by prospective tenants, showing restrictions, etc.
Marketing Of The Property
We will actively market the property until a new tenant is secured. We’ll coordinate showings with you, providing notice for scheduled showings. Accommodating as many showings as possible maximizes opportunities to secure a tenant.
When Will I be Released From My Lease Responsibilities?
Once a tenant is approved, they have signed a lease and paid their deposit-we’ll notify you to confirm their move-in date. Once a move-in date is set you will be notified.
Thank you for your cooperation.
At Asset Upkeep, we are dedicated to upholding the principles of fair housing, ensuring that every individual has equal access to housing opportunities. We adhere to both federal and Texas fair housing laws to foster inclusive and discrimination-free communities.
