Everything You Need to Know About Your Lease — Plain and Simple

Signing a lease can feel overwhelming. Pages of legal language, unfamiliar terms, and a long list of responsibilities; it’s a lot to take in. At TeamWork Property Management, we believe every tenant deserves to understand exactly what they’re agreeing to. That’s why we’ve broken down our lease into plain, everyday language so you can rent with confidence.
Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned tenant, this guide walks you through everything ; from how rent works to what happens when you move out.

The Basics: Who You're Renting From

Your lease is a legal agreement between you (the tenant) and TeamWork Property Management, who acts on behalf of the property owner. TeamWork is licensed under South Carolina law, and your lease follows the South Carolina Landlord and Tenant Act — a state law that protects both tenants and landlords. You can read it anytime on the state’s official website.

💡 Your lease was approved based on your rental application. If false information is discovered on your application at any point, the lease can be terminated immediately.

Move-In and Move-Out Dates

Your lease clearly defines when your tenancy begins and when it ends. On move-in day, you’ll receive two keys. When the time comes to leave, you’re expected to:

  • Return the property clean and in good condition
  • Remove all of your belongings
  • Return all keys and access passes

If the home was built before 1978, there will be a lead-based paint disclosure attached to your lease for your safety — this is required by federal law.

Rent: What You Pay, When You Pay It

Here’s everything you need to know about rent payments:

  • Rent is due on the 1st of every month
  • If rent isn’t paid by midnight on the 5th, a 10% late fee applies
  • If rent isn’t paid within 5 days, the eviction process can begin — no extra reminders will be sent
  • Your first month’s rent must be paid in certified funds before you receive your keys
  • If you move in or out mid-month, rent is prorated on a daily basis
  • Paying with cash carries a $10 fee
  • Bounced checks carry a $45 fee. After two bounced checks, you must pay via certified funds only

⚠️ The lease itself is your notice about late fees and eviction timelines. Don’t wait for a reminder — pay on time!

Your Security Deposit

Your security deposit must be paid when you sign your lease. Here are the key rules:

  • It covers any damages or unpaid rent — it cannot be used as your last month’s rent
  • It will be refunded within 30 days after move-out if all conditions are met
  • It is refunded to all tenants on the lease unless everyone agrees otherwise in writing

When you’re ready to move out, you’ll receive a Move-Out Packet with detailed cleaning and repair requirements. Following these instructions carefully is the best way to get your full deposit back.

Who Lives in the Property

Everyone 18 and older living in the home must be listed on the lease and approved by TeamWork. Here’s what to know about changes:

  • Adding or removing a tenant costs $200 per change, plus application fees
  • The new person must be approved and all parties must sign a change addendum
  • Security deposits remain in place until all tenants have vacated the property
  • Guests may not stay longer than 14 days without written permission

Your Day-to-Day Responsibilities

As a tenant, you take on certain responsibilities to keep the property in great shape:

Maintenance & Cleanliness

  • Keep the property clean and in good condition
  • Handle minor maintenance tasks yourself
  • Report larger issues promptly — don’t wait
  • Change HVAC filters regularly
  • Keep drains clear and report any leaks
  • You may not deduct repair costs from rent

Alterations

  • No painting, installing fixtures, or making alterations without written permission
  • Small nails and command strips may be used cautiously

Utilities

  • You’re responsible for all utilities unless the lease lists specific ones we cover
  • Proof of utility setup is required before move-in
  • Utilities must stay active for 3 days after you move out

Keys & Lockouts

  • You receive two keys at move-in; extra keys cost $25
  • Lockouts may require a fee or a locksmith at your expense
  • Unauthorized lock changes will result in charges

Pests, Appliances & Insurance

We handle major systems — HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. But here’s what falls on you:

  • Pest issues after the first 3 days (except termites) are your responsibility to treat and pay for
  • If a washer/dryer is provided, it’s a courtesy — repairs and replacements are your responsibility
  • We strongly recommend renter’s insurance to protect your belongings — we are not liable for loss or damage to personal property

Renewing, Ending, or Breaking Your Lease

Here are your options as your lease approaches its end:

Natural End of Lease

Either party may terminate the agreement with 30 days’ written notice. Note: 30-day notices take effect from the first day of the following month after they are received.

Month-to-Month

If you stay after your lease ends without renewing, there’s an additional $100/month fee.

Renewal

Renewing your lease carries a $100 renewal charge.

Breaking the Lease Early

If you need to leave before your lease is up, you owe 2.5x the monthly rent plus half a month’s rent as a leasing fee. Since we don’t market occupied homes, these fees are due upfront before we can begin finding a new tenant.

Military Exception

Active military members who receive transfer orders can terminate the lease with 30 days’ notice and proof of orders.

📋 If the property is severely damaged by fire or disaster, you may be entitled to end the lease or receive a rent reduction.

Property Access & Inspections

We respect your privacy and will always give 24-hour notice before entering your home — except in emergencies. We may enter to:

  • Perform inspections or repairs
  • Show the property to prospective tenants or buyers

We also perform periodic property evaluations. If you miss a scheduled evaluation or cancel at the last minute, there’s a $75 fee.

HOA Rules, Pets & Special Items

HOA

If your property is in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA), you must follow all HOA rules. Any fines or fees from violations by you or your guests are your responsibility.

Pets

No pets are allowed without written approval and required fees. Unauthorized pets result in a $500 fine and potential backdated charges.

Special Items

The following require written permission: antennas, satellite dishes, waterbeds, and space heaters.

The Resident Benefits Package (RBP)

Your lease includes a Resident Benefits Package — an additional monthly fee that covers perks like:

  • Regular HVAC filter deliveries
  • Resident rewards program
  • Credit-building reporting
  • Insurance options

This fee is treated as additional rent and is part of your monthly payment.

Your Rights as a Tenant

As long as you pay your rent and follow the terms of your lease, you have the right to enjoy the property without interruption. We are committed to providing you with a safe, well-maintained home.

📞 For all notices and communications, please use the official contact information for TeamWork Property Management listed in your lease. Changes to lease terms must always be made in writing and signed by both parties.

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