Tenant FAQs
What is the process for applying for an available rental? Is there a background check performed and is damaged credit a deciding factor?
Central Property Management has a simple application process that you can complete online. This application process does include several background checks including: credit, past rentals, criminal, employment, and utility history. Applying parties are not disqualified by poor credit alone as there is an emphasis placed on prior rental and criminal history. CPM follows the guidelines set by the credit bureaus and the tenant laws set by the State of Iowa.
Can I use the security deposit to pay for the last month's rent?
The security deposit CANNOT be used for the last month’s rent. Security deposits can only be returned after completion of the “Move Out Process”. Please refer to our Move-Out Process page that provides step by step details for moving out of a rental and the return of the security deposit. Security deposits should be returned within 30 days after move-out. Central Property Management holds and disburses the security deposit pursuant to the Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Can I pay rent online? Do you accept Cash or Credit Cards?
Central Property Management accepts rent payments via PayPal and
Venmo. PayPal and Venmo can make payments from your banking account or a credit card. Please note any fees associated with paying through PayPal and Venmo are the responsibility of the tenant to pay. We also accept payment via check through the mail to our P.O. Box. When you become a tenant you will be provided with a CPM rent information sheet that includes the CPM Pay Pal and Venmo addresses as well as our P.O. Box mailing information.
What are the office hours for Central Property Management? What if I have a maintenance emergency after-hours?
CPM hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you need to talk to someone specifically in person please contact your property manager to schedule an appointment. When you become a tenant you will be provided with a CPM contact information sheet which will include an afterhours phone number to be used for emergency maintenance issues.
I've run into unexpected financial difficulties. Will the landlord work with me?
CPM understands that unanticipated financial issues may arise. While the landlord has no obligation to offer any rent abatement nor concessions the landlord might be open to making payment accommodations if the issue is temporary or can be resolved in the relatively immediate future and you can get back to a stable financial place. Call our office if you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss options. Please note it is best to address these financial issues immediately with the landlord rather than wait until the 1st of the month when rent is due.
Who will take care of a maintenance request?
CPM will coordinate maintenance requests and get confirmation from the homeowner on any necessary approvals. Please note it is important to report any issues or problems that you recognize or even suspect. Do not avoid reporting an issue because you fear you might be responsible for the cost. If the issue or problem was caused by you or your guests than yes you are responsible for the repair but not reporting the issue so it can be inspected and repaired as needed can cause more damage to occur to the property which ultimately would mean even more cost to you down the road if the repair is your responsibility. Most often this fear is unjustified. Homes are built with many components that wear out over time due regular use. Most landlords appreciate your diligence in regards to the upkeep of their home and can often make maintenance exceptions for exceptional tenants.