Getting Your Property Rent Ready

Full Rent-Ready Requirements

At HCM Property Management, we are committed to providing safe, clean, and properly maintained homes to our residents. To meet both internal standards and California state rental housing requirements, we strongly recommend that all properties comply with the following Rent-Ready guidelines to be fully advertised and move-in ready.

Requirements:

• The property must be professionally cleaned and free of trash and debris, both inside and outside.
• All mechanical elements, including appliances, must be in working condition.
• Culking should be clean.
• Doors and locks must operate properly.
• All windows should open, close, and lock properly. Window screens must be in good condition.
• Carpet must be professionally cleaned and presentable.
• All painted surfaces should be fully painted. Touch-up color deviations are acceptable but should be minimal.
• The property must be free of personal items such as furniture, toiletries, shower curtains, décor, etc., unless the property is partially or fully furnished.
• No lawn equipment (e.g., mowers, tools) should remain in the unit.
• Garage floors should be swept clean.
• There should be no debris outside the property.
• The lawn must be mowed and trimmed.
• Landscaping should be fresh and clean.
• Carbon monoxide detectors must be installed within 15 feet of each bedroom (wall-mounted only; plug-in units are not permitted).
• A smoke detector must be installed on each floor and in each bedroom.
• All light fixtures must have working bulbs.
• All doors must open and close properly, and doorstops should be installed.
• HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and all appliances (kitchen, laundry, sump pumps, etc.) must function properly.
• Railings must be secure.
• Exterior window wells require covers.
• Operational wood-burning fireplaces must be clean and have screens or heat-proof glass doors. Non-operational fireplaces must be permanently sealed in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
• Recommendations
  Windows (except basement windows) should have vertical or mini blinds.
• Avoid draperies; blinds are preferred.
• All windows should have screens.
  

  Exceptions to Rent Readiness

• In certain cases, tenants may request to move in before the property is fully ready. This may result in minor cosmetic defects (e.g., paint chips or broken window screens) remaining unaddressed. Tenants must document such issues during the Move-In Inspection to avoid charges during move-out.
• For any outstanding habitability-related issues, tenants must allow access to vendors or contractors to complete necessary repairs. Delays or disruptions caused by this work will not result in rent credits or liability for HCM Property Management.
• This list covers the most common and critical rent-ready requirements but does not encompass every potential detail. By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure a smooth and successful rental experience for all parties involved.