Tenant FAQs

First month’s rent and security deposit are typically required in certified funds, such as a cashier’s check or money order, unless Pivot gives different written instructions for your property.

A cashier’s check can usually be obtained from a bank or credit union. Money orders are commonly available through grocery stores, convenience stores, or postal locations.

Monthly rent should be paid through the tenant portal when your portal account is active. Online payments help avoid mail delays and provide better payment tracking.

Open the Tenant Portal

Rent is due according to your lease. If rent is not paid in full and on time, late fees may apply based on the lease terms and applicable law.

Review your lease carefully for the exact due date, grace period if any, late fee language, and approved payment methods.

If credit card payment is available through the tenant portal, the payment processor may charge an additional processing fee. Pivot does not control third-party processing fees.

Rent must be paid in full by the due date stated in your lease. If you use more than one payment method or payment transaction, the full balance must still be received on time to avoid late fees or lease enforcement issues.

Contact Pivot with your current email address so an activation link can be sent to you. Once activated, you can use the tenant portal for rent payments, maintenance requests, and account access.

An emergency is generally an immediate threat to life, safety, or serious property damage.

• Fire or active smoke: call 911 immediately.
• Smell of gas: leave the property and call 911 or the gas company immediately.
• Active flooding or major water intrusion: take reasonable steps to stop the source if safe, then contact Pivot immediately.
• Electrical hazard or unsafe condition: avoid the area and report it immediately.

Submit non-emergency maintenance requests through your tenant portal. Include a clear description, photos if possible, and your availability for access.

Portal requests create a written record and help Pivot coordinate the correct vendor or next step.

Leave the property immediately. Do not use switches, appliances, phones inside the home, or anything that could create a spark. Contact the gas company and/or 911 right away, then notify Pivot once you are safe.

Many garbage disposals have a reset button located under the unit. If the disposal stops working, turn it off first, check the reset button, and never place your hand inside the disposal.

If something is jammed, do not force it. Submit a maintenance request if the disposal does not reset or if you are unsure.

GFI/GFCI outlets are commonly located near water sources such as kitchens, bathrooms, garages, laundry areas, and exterior locations. If tripped, they may shut off power to one outlet or several connected outlets.

Press the reset button on the outlet. If it will not reset, check nearby GFI/GFCI outlets or the breaker panel. Submit a maintenance request if power is not restored.

Pest responsibility depends on the lease, property condition, timing, and the cause of the issue. Tenants are generally expected to keep the property clean and avoid conditions that attract pests.

Report pest concerns through the tenant portal so the issue can be reviewed.

Tenants should contact the applicable utility companies for the property address unless the lease states that a utility is included. Start service before move-in whenever possible.

View Utility Set Up Information

Trash collection days vary by city and service provider. Contact the local trash company or city service provider for the property address.

Property-specific move-in procedures vary. If you have questions about appliances, utilities, or systems, contact Pivot through the portal. For utility-specific issues, the utility company may need to provide service or instructions.

During business hours, contact Pivot to see whether assistance is available. If you are locked out after hours, you may need to contact a locksmith at your expense.

Any lock change or rekey must comply with your lease and may require written approval.

All adults 18 years or older who will live at the property must generally be listed on the lease and approved through the application process. Co-signers or guarantors may also be included when required.

Do not sublet, assign, rent rooms, add occupants, or allow unauthorized occupants without prior written approval. Any new adult occupant may be required to apply, qualify, and be approved before moving in.

Do not make alterations without prior written approval. This includes changing locks, painting, wallpapering, installing security systems, mounting fixtures, changing landscaping, or making other modifications to the property.

Review your lease for the required notice period. Many tenancies require written notice before moving out, and timing may depend on the lease terms and applicable law.

Rent changes depend on the lease, property, timing, and applicable law. If a rent increase is issued, it should be provided in writing as required.

If the owner decides to sell, tenant rights, access, notice, showings, and lease terms will be handled according to the lease and applicable law. Pivot will communicate required steps if that situation applies to your property.

Pet approval depends on the property, owner approval, lease terms, HOA rules if applicable, insurance limitations, and completion of any required pet agreement or addendum.

Do not bring a pet onto the property without written approval.

Contact Pivot before getting the pet. Written approval and a pet agreement or addendum may be required before the pet is allowed at the property.

Renters insurance helps protect your personal property and may provide liability coverage. The owner’s insurance generally does not cover your personal belongings.

Examples may include theft, fire, certain water damage, guest injuries, or other covered losses depending on your policy.

Notify Pivot in writing and provide the required documentation. Military-related lease rights may apply depending on the circumstances and applicable law.

In California, a landlord generally has up to 21 calendar days after the tenant vacates to provide an itemized statement and return any remaining security deposit, subject to lawful deductions.

Return the property in the condition required by the lease, less normal wear and tear. Remove personal belongings, clean thoroughly, return keys/remotes, repair tenant-caused damage where appropriate, and follow move-out instructions.

Professional cleaning may be required depending on your lease and the condition of the property.

Normal wear and tear generally means ordinary deterioration from normal use. Damage, neglect, missing items, excessive dirt, unauthorized alterations, stains, broken fixtures, or abuse may not be considered normal wear and tear.

Early access is property-specific and must be approved in writing. Do not move belongings into the property, garage, yard, or storage areas before your approved lease start or possession date.