Many newcomers live in an apartment complex: a group of buildings run by one management company. It works a little like a small town with its own office and rules.
The leasing office (or management office) is where you sign the lease, pay rent, ask questions and pick up some packages. Staff are usually there on weekdays and some weekends. Most complexes also have a resident portal or app for rent, requests and messages.
Amenities are shared extras: a pool, gym, clubhouse, business center, dog park, grills, playground. They are paid for through your rent, sometimes with a separate monthly amenity fee. Each has rules: hours, guests limits, a key fob to enter.
A gated complex has a gate for cars and people. You get a gate code, a remote or an app.
A fob is a small electronic key for doors, the gym and the pool.
Lost keys and fobs usually have a replacement fee. Locked out after hours? Call the emergency maintenance number; there may be a fee.
Some complexes give each unit an assigned spot or a parking permit sticker. Others are first come, first served.
Covered parking, carports and garages usually cost extra each month.
Cars without a permit, or in someone else's spot, can be towed (taken away), which can cost a few hundred dollars to get back.
Tell the office before guests park overnight.
Report repairs (a leaking sink, broken heater, no hot water) through the portal or app, or at the office. Add photos.
Repairs are usually free unless you caused the damage.
A worker may enter your home to fix it, often when you are out. The lease says how much notice they must give.
Emergencies (flooding, no heat in winter, gas smell, no water) go to the 24-hour emergency line. For a gas smell, leave first and call 911 or the gas company.
Many complexes have package lockers: you get a code by text or email and open your locker. Packages left too long may be returned. Large items may be held at the office.
Most leases have quiet hours, often around 10 p.m. to 7 or 8 a.m. Other common rules: no grilling on balconies, nothing hung over railings, trash only in the dumpsters, smoke only in marked areas. Breaking rules can bring warning letters and fines.
Pet-friendly complexes usually charge a one-time pet deposit or pet fee and monthly pet rent, and may limit breed, weight and number of pets. Service animals and assistance animals for people with disabilities are treated differently under fair housing law and usually cannot be charged pet fees.
Not reading the community rules attached to the lease.
Waiting to report a small leak. It becomes a big repair and the landlord may say you caused it.