Frequently Asked Questions at CHT

Rental Process and Applications:

Is there an application fee?

Yes, there is an application fee of $20 per applicant – cosigners included. This fee is nonrefundable even if you do not rent the apartment. This money goes towards screening reports for each applicant.

I filled out an application, does this mean I’m obligated to rent from you?

Nope! If you find somewhere that better suits you, we will not process your application. 

Does a filled out application mean the apartment I intend to rent is secured?

Nope, the process is completely first come first served. If you are applying for an apartment with roommates, we encourage you to push your roommates and their cosigners to get applications in. The market can be hot, so get those applications in fast! The only way to secure an apartment completely is with a signed lease.

Rental Search and Showing Process:

Do I have to view an apartment before renting it?

Yes, you need to view an apartment if you decide to rent it. If you know someone who lives in the apartment that you are interested in renting, you may view it with them and fill out paperwork from our office stating that you have viewed it. If you’d like to set up a showing visit our office or call ahead! We require our tenants to receive a 12 hour notice prior to showings.

How fast do apartments typically fill up?

It depends! We have no way of knowing, sometimes the market is crazy hot and some apartments are swept up faster than others! Typically, our newly renovated apartments and buildings will go faster than others.

Do I need a cosigner?

All apartments with three or more tenants will require cosigners. Apartments with one to two tenants may require a cosigner depending on certain variables.

Should I purchase renters insurance?

We highly recommend all tenants purchase renter’s insurance for extra protection of belongings and themselves. Our online payment system offers a simple monthly plan to get protected. 

Leases:

Do you offer individual leases?

No, all of our leases are joint and several. This means all residents under one lease are liable for damages, charges, etc. that may occur. 

Do you offer short term leases?

No, all leases are 12 months, however, tenants have the option to sublet their apartment. Subletting is offered at a fee and must be approved through our office with the correct procedures in place.

We have turned in all necessary applications/money owed and been approved by a CHT leasing agent for the unit, what are the next steps?

Once approved, the leasing agent you are working with will draw up a lease agreement (typically no more than 5 days after being approved). They will send out the agreement to all applicants and you will have 5 days to have all signatures notarized or we reserve the right to move on to the next interested group.

How should my roommates and I split up rent?

We require that the entire rent amount is paid by the first of each month otherwise late fees will be accessed, but we remain uninvolved in how you choose to divvy up the monthly cost.

I want to add someone onto my lease, how do I go about doing that?

To add an additional tenant onto your lease, there will be a retyping fee assessed and your security deposit will be adjusted to reflect the additional charges. Once the adjusted amount is paid, management will send out a new lease reflecting all tenants/cosigners.

Current Residents:

How do I pay rent?

We use a third party online payment system that allows you to pay rent via credit card and/or bank account, and request maintenance online. You may also pay rent in the office in the form of a check or cash payment.

Where do I request maintenance?

Your online portal has a tab on the left side that says "request maintenance." Here you can leave a detailed request of any issues you may be experiencing and submit it to our office.

There was an emergency maintenance issue in my apartment. Is there a maintenance person on call after hours?

Yes, we have a maintenance worker on call 24/7. Call emergency maintenance immediately for leaks, floods, broken refrigerator, fires, etc.

Sublet Process:

Do you find sublettors for us? 

No, you must find your own sublettor. We recommend checking the Facebook page "Madison Sublets."

How does the subletting process work?

Please check out our "Residents" tab and click the dropdown arrow to Sublet Procedures for the checklist regarding sublets.

Do we need cosigners for sublets?

No, we do not need cosigners to apply for sublets as our contract is with the original lessee. Sublet contracts are between the lessee and the sublettor through their terms, and will be drawn up by the office. Please do not have them apply, as applications cannot be refunded.

Reminder: All sublets must be done through the office

Is there a limit to how many sublets I can do?

Yes, we only allow so many sublets per apartment. Please check with your office for the specific amount allowed in your unit.

I'm a sublettor, where do I make payments?

After applying, you will receive an invite to create your own portal on our software system, where you can make payments, request maintenance, communicate with team members via text, etc. Please refer to your sublet agreement in making payments as your portal does not reflect upfront payments and payments of a difference in rent amount owed. This goes for both subletters and lessees.

Contact us any time