Tips and Tricks for Current Tenants

• Complete and return check-in report within 10 days of receiving the key
• Call Xcel energy to put the bill in your name (if applicable)
• Have a good plunger on hand
• Purchase a mini drain snake from Menards for only $1.99
• We highly recommend renters insurance. Please email us a copy of it.

Per our policy:

• Potted plants are welcomed outside duplexes and single family homes, but in-ground planting is prohibited
• Pre-approved/authorized pets ONLY
• Burning candles is prohibited
• Attaching magnetic screens, window wraps, plant hangers, screws, mesh doors, satellite dishes, etc. is strictly prohibited
• There should be nothing stored within 8-10 feet of the furnace or the water heater
• All cameras (security cameras, doorbell cameras, etc.) must be approved before installation. Installation cannot involve drilling into siding/property/posts and must respect neighbor's privacy.

Per insurance:

• Firepits, burn pits, etc. are prohibited
• Trampolines are prohibited
• Swimming pools are prohibited

Per fire department:

• Alternative heat sources are prohibited (ex: electric fireplace, propane heaters)
• Extension cords are prohibited

• If you have a gas furnace and are able to access it, change the furnace filter monthly – especially during the winter months
• If you have electric heat, vacuum the baseboards regularly
• Test your smoke detectors monthly - NEVER remove batteries or take smoke detectors down - this is a lease and fire department violation which could result in a fine
• Mow the lawn regularly (if applicable) - this is a city ordinance and you may be fined
• Shovel snow within 24 hours of a snowfall - this is a city ordinance and you may be fined 
• Change light bulbs with the same type, size, and wattage bulb - please don't leave any light sockets empty
• If you find yourself without electricity for a longer period of time, please open and empty refrigerator to avoid it getting moldy and ruined. Leaving it closed will damage it beyond repair and you would be responsible for the cost of replacing it. (Per your lease you must maintain Xcel Energy the entire term of your lease.
• If you have an outside water spigot - before temperatures freeze, turn off the water valve (in the basement) to avoid water damage and pipes bursting.
• Please dry dishes before putting them in the cabinets, as the wetness can damage the cabinets.
• Please do not put grease down drains - make sure to throw grease in the garbage 
• If you have a garbage disposal - make sure to be cautious on what goes into it. To keep it clean - Put some baking soda and vinegar down the disposal. 
• For Items being stored in an unfinished basement - it is best to use plastic bins or pallets as Wisconsin basements rarely stay 100% dry

High water bill?  Call us immediately and shut off water valve if there is a leak. Ways to check if your toilet is leaking:

• Listen for water running
• Look for water movement in the bowl
• Add a little food coloring or dark soda to the water tank - check the toilet bowl a few hours later to see if the color has leaked from the tank
• Check the water meter - is it moving when water is not being used

Shower isn’t draining properly? 

• Use a mini drain snake from Menards to clean hair out of the drain (we suggest doing this every month anyway!)
• If shower is still not draining, put a little baking soda and vinegar down the drain (we do NOT recommend draino)

Water in your basement? 

• Check to make sure downspouts are on. 
• If you have an unfinished basement please be cautious and store items in plastic totes or shelves as Wisconsin basements won't stay 100% dry!

High electric bill with electric heat? 

• Keeping electric heaters set at a stable temperature will ensure cost efficiency. 
• Adjusting temperature 1 or 2 degrees as needed is best
• Turning the temperature way up or way down will almost double your bill

Keep a clean dishwasher-

• Run an empty load using dishwasher cleaner.

Rent Certificate / Tax forms will be completed upon request (this may take up to two weeks)

These documents can be E-Mailed or made ready at the office for pick-up.

For copies to be mailed, please provide a self-addressed-stamped envelope.