Tenant FAQs

Applying for one of our rental homes is quick and convenient. To do so, simply complete the application online directly on our website. The application will ask you to provide basic information, such as your contact details, employment history, rental history and references.

Once submitted, our team will review your application and contact you with a request for more information, or with a final decision.

We have specific requirements that applicants must meet, including demonstrating stable income, a good rental history and responsible financial habits.

Typically, we only place tenants who earn three times the monthly rent. Income requirements may be adjusted for applicants using housing vouchers or other lawful sources of income, consistent with California fair housing laws.

Our goal is to create successful tenancies, so all applications are evaluated using consistent screening criteria including income, rental history and credit history.

We collect the security deposit at the start of the lease to protect the property owner in case of unpaid rent, lease violations or damages beyond normal wear and tear.

Security deposits comply with California law and generally do not exceed one month’s rent.

The security deposit is refundable, less any lawful deductions for unpaid rent, cleaning or damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Rent is typically due on the first day of each month, unless otherwise specified in your lease agreement.

To pay your rent, simply log into your online portal! The online tenant portal allows for secure electronic payments using bank transfers or other digital methods.

Paying your rent on time every month will ensure you avoid late fees. If you anticipate difficulty making a payment, contacting our office as early as possible to discuss potential solutions.

If rent is not received by the due date, late fees may apply if rent is not received by the due date, as outlined in your lease agreement and consistent with California law. Continued nonpayment may lead to formal notices or further legal steps, such as initiating the California eviction process.

We understand that unexpected situations can arise. If you’re in a difficult financial situation and anticipate a delay in paying rent, it’s important to reach out to our office right away. We can discuss possible options to prevent the situation from escalating.

If maintenance is needed, you can submit a request through the online tenant portal, or you can contact our office directly. When submitting your request, please include a clear description of the issue and, if possible, photos that help illustrate the problem. Our maintenance team appreciates this. We respond to maintenance requests in accordance with California habitability requirements and property safety standards.

Once we receive your request, we’ll schedule the appropriate repairs!

For all emergencies that affect your safety or the health of the property, please call our emergency maintenance line.

Emergency maintenance issues involve situations that threaten your safety or cause significant property damage, including major plumbing leaks, electrical hazards, gas leaks, flooding and more.

If you experience an issue that requires immediate attention, you should contact our emergency maintenance line right away so our team can respond promptly.

At Fertig & Gordon Companies, Inc, we know that you may wish to personalize your living space, and while we want to ensure you feel at home in our properties, any modifications you wish to make must be approved in advance. This means that you cannot paint walls, install fixtures or make structural alterations without our written permission first.

Should you make unauthorized changes, you may be subject to covering repair costs or deductions from the security deposit at move-out.

Pet policies are clearly outlined in each lease agreement as they vary by property. While some homes allow pets with prior approval, others may not.
When pets are allowed, there may be restrictions related to size, breed or the number of pets permitted. You may also need to pay a pet deposit or pet rent. Assistance animals, including service animals and emotional support animals, are not considered pets under fair housing laws and are permitted with appropriate documentation, even in properties that otherwise have a no-pet policy.

If you are considering bringing a pet into your home and are unsure about your property’s pet policies, please contact our office to review the specific guidelines. This will ensure you avoid any potential complications or penalties.

Adding someone to your lease is typically allowed, so long as you have written approval from Fertig & Gordon Companies, Inc. All residents living in the home, including additional roommates, must complete the proper application process and meet the same qualification standards as the original tenant.
If you plan to have someone move in with you, it is important to contact our office first. We will guide you through the appropriate steps and update the lease if the request is approved. Occupancy standards follow applicable housing regulations.

Unless otherwise stated in your lease, month-to-month tenants must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before moving out.

During the move-out process, you are expected to clean the property, remove all personal belongings and return the keys.

Our team will then conduct a move-out inspection to evaluate the condition of the home and identify any damages beyond normal wear and tear. If there are any necessary repairs, cleaning costs or unpaid charges, we may deduct it from your security deposit.

You will receive your security deposit within 21 days after you move out of the rental property.

Deductions will be made if there’s unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear. If deductions are made, you will receive an itemized statement explaining the charges, as well as any remaining balance.

If no deductions are made, you will simply receive your full deposit back.

At Fertig & Gordon Companies, Inc, our team is here to support you throughout your entire rental experience. If you have any questions at all, please call us at 626-461-5283 or email us at info@fertigandgordon.com for more information! You can also reach us daily through the online tenant portal.

We’re committed to providing you with a positive and comfortable living experience in your rental home.