Tenant Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? Contact Us.

Can I apply for a property without viewing it first?

At Gifford Properties & Management, Inc., we don’t recommend applying for a property “sight unseen.” This is because while you might have seen photos of the property, they are only representations of the interior’s actual size and space.

Viewing the properties, yourself is the only way to determine whether or not the property meets your needs. If you are unable to view the property yourself, you can ask a trusted relative or friend to do it for you.

What should I do next if I’m interested in a property?

You should schedule a property showing by calling the number in the property listing. Alternatively, you can contact us. Our committed and dedicated managers will be happy to help you find what you are looking for.

How do I apply to rent?

To be eligible to rent, you must first meet certain criteria. First and foremost, you must be at least eighteen years old. Next, you need to pay a non-refundable application fee and fill out a rental application form.

The fee helps us process your application and conduct a background check.

Is signing a lease required?

Yes, you must sign a lease with Gifford Properties & Management, Inc. The lease agreement specifies the lease term and covers the duties and obligations of each party.

How much is the security deposit?

The security deposit is usually the equivalent of one month’s rent. You must pay it in full once we approve your application.

When is rent due?

Rent is due on the first of every month. It automatically becomes late past midnight of the first day. However, we’ll only charge you a late fee once the grace period lapses. The grace period runs until the fifth of the month.

Which rent payment methods do you accept?

We accept payments in cash, credit card, and E-check. If you choose to pay electronically, all you need is an internet connection. After that, it’s as easy as logging into your tenant portal and making a payment.

By how much can I expect a rental increase?

We only implement a rental increase once the existing lease period has ended. The amount depends on various factors. For example, the owner’s requests and current market conditions. As such, it’s hard to give an exact figure prior to an assessment.

However, we promise that our rent increases will always be reasonable, and you will be notified beforehand.

How do I request for repair and maintenance?

To request a repair or maintenance, please put it in writing through your tenant portal. We’ll act on it as soon as possible.

What should I do if I have a plumbing problem?

If there is a plumbing problem, please call our office. If it’s after normal business hours, please leave a message with the answering service describing your issue.

An on-call property manager will then contact you in a short while.

Can I be charged for any property maintenance?

Yes, it is possible. You’ll be charged for any property maintenance resulting from your negligence or carelessness.

What do I do if the smoke detector in my unit starts beeping?

In most cases, this means that the batteries need replacing. You can purchase new ones at your hardware store or local market. The costs are yours to bear.

Sometimes, reaching the smoke detector can become a problem due to vaulted ceilings. In such a case, please fill out a maintenance request form.

What if I can’t pay rent because of a “special situation”?

We understand no one is exempt from life’s ups and downs. While we sympathize with the situation, we are legally bound by the lease to observe its terms. As such, Gifford Properties & Management, Inc. will not grant any exceptions.

Can anyone from your office enter my home without my knowledge?

The Florida landlord-tenant law grants you the right to the quiet enjoyment of your homes. As such, no one from our office will enter your property without proper notice.

That said, a few exceptions do exist. For example, during an emergency or when we have sufficient reasons to believe that you abandoned the property.

Can I smoke inside the home?

No, we don’t allow smoking inside the property. If you act contrary to this rule, we’ll hold you liable for any property damage resulting from your illegal actions.

Besides paying a substantial fee, repeated violations can also lead to your eviction.

Do you allow subleasing?

No, Gifford Properties & Management, Inc. does not allow subleasing. If you believe it’s necessary, it’s important that you get in touch with our office.

Can I get a roommate?

Yes, you can. However, they need to be screened first and qualified to live in the home. We must know who is living in the property.

Similar to your own application process, your potential roommate must fill out an application form. They must also pay an application fee. If approved, then they will have the green light to live with you.

Please note that keeping a roommate without our consent could lead to your lease being terminated.

What should I do if my roommate moves out before the lease ends?

Contact us immediately via written notice. Keep in mind that, as tenants, you are jointly and separately liable to pay the rent. Also, should you want to substitute your roommate, please get in contact with your property manager.

Can I have a pet?

Please get in contact with your property manager. Different properties will have different requirements.

For properties that allow pets, you’ll need to abide by the pet policy. The policy may have restrictions on what type, breed, and size of pet you can have. You may also need to pay a pet fee.

For properties that have a “no pet policy”, please make sure not to violate the rule. If you do, you risk hefty fines aside from the possibility of being evicted.

Can I paint the walls another color?

Again, different properties will have different requirements. So, please send your request to Gifford Properties & Management, Inc. You also need to give the specifics on the rooms or walls you wish to paint.

Can I add locks or change them?

You cannot make any alterations to the locks by yourself, you need permission before doing so. Doing it without our consent is a serious violation of the lease and can result in lease termination.

All your requests to rekey, change, install, repair, or replace security devices must be in writing. Also, you must agree to bear all the costs pertaining to your requests.

Can I get a satellite dish?

This depends on the specific property. Some owners may agree to this, while others may flat out disagree. If you want to install a satellite dish, please contact our office. We will be happy to answer your questions.

How do I give my notice to vacate and how much advance notice do I need to give?

If you plan to move out once your lease has ended, you’ll need to notify us at least sixty days before your lease ends. The notice must be written and must be received by our office before the last day of the month.