Resident Rental Info

Affordable Rentals

At D.M. Rothwell, Inc. Real Estate Brokerage we are look to offer affordable rentals. Our team is always updating our listings to provide you with all our options. Please check the website often to ensure you don't miss a new listing! Review our listings and call us today at 434-977-7676.

What does "City Rustic" mean when I see that in a listing description? There are a variety of rental options in a city the age of Charlottesville. One of our owners has a unique collection of much older rentals that offer very basic amenities at affordable prices. Most of these units do not include W/D, Dishwashers, or features that other rentals will include. They usually have window A/C units and sometimes baseboard heating. Each unit is unique but we classify them under the "City Rustic" description.

Resident FAQ

After my application is approved, what do I do?

We will contact you as soon as possible to let you know that you have been approved. If you have chosen a location, you will need to sign the lease within 48 hours. If you have not chosen a location, your application is approved for up to 30 days while you choose a home that fits your needs and budget. We do not hold any unit without the application and deposit.

Can I apply my security deposit to my last month’s rent?

No. Your security deposit can only be used for outstanding charges after you vacate the property and may not be applied to your last month’s rent. This is governed by the Virginia Landlord Tenant Act and your lease agreement.

Can I change the locks on my home?

Generally, no. Most properties are keyed on a master system. Any changes can affect emergency response or maintenance access. If you request re‑keying, it must be completed by an approved locksmith and is at your cost. Please contact the office.

Can I paint my home a different color?

No, unless agreed to in writing by the owner of the property. We recommend using non‑permanent decorating methods.

Can I withhold my rent for items not being corrected?

No. Under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, withholding rent is prohibited. Please contact our office immediately to discuss your situation.

Do I have to be present for a service technician to perform work?

No, you do not have to be present when work is being performed.

Do I need renters insurance?

Yes, residents are solely responsible for insuring their own personal property that is located or stored upon the leased premises. Proof of renters insurance with required coverage must be provided prior to move‑in.

Do you accept pets?

Pets are accepted on a case‑by‑case basis depending on the property owner. Approved pets must be listed in the Pet Addendum. Additional pet deposits and monthly pet rent may apply. Any damage caused by pets is the responsibility of the resident.

How can I pay rent after I move in?

The Resident Portal is the required method for rent payment. Rent must be received no later than the 5th of the month to avoid late fees. Special payment arrangements must be submitted in writing to the office.

How do I qualify to lease a property?

Applicants must meet income, credit, and rental history requirements. In some cases, an additional lease holder or guarantor may be required to meet qualification standards.

How do I submit routine maintenance requests?

Routine maintenance requests must be submitted through the Resident Portal, by email at Office@DMRothwell.com, or by phone during business hours at 434‑977‑7676. For maintenance emergencies, please call 434‑257‑6858. If there is a fire or carbon monoxide concern, call 911 immediately.

How do I take a look at an available property?

Prospective tenants may view properties by scheduling an appointment with our office. Current residents must receive at least 24 hours’ notice before a showing. Showings are available Monday through Friday between 9am and 2pm. Occasional Saturday showings may be available with advance notice. We do not show properties on Sundays. If a property is vacant and you are working with a realtor, they may show it using the lockbox.

How do I turn on utilities?

Residents are responsible for placing all utilities in their name unless otherwise agreed to in the lease. Utilities must remain on for the entire lease term. Keys cannot be issued until utilities are active in the resident’s name. Fees may be assessed for non‑compliance.

How does the application process work?

Each adult (18 or older) planning to occupy the property must complete an application and provide required documentation. Applications are typically processed within 1–2 business days and include credit, employment, income, and rental history review. When signing a lease, the security deposit is due in full. The first month’s rent or prorated rent is due when keys are picked up. To remove a property from the market, the application, deposit, and signed lease must be completed within 48 hours of approval.

How is rent credited?

Rent payments are credited to the longest outstanding balance first. Any delinquent charges must be fully satisfied before payments are applied to current rent. Unpaid balances may continue to incur late fees.

How long are your leases?

Most leases are for a minimum of 12 months. Some properties may offer shorter or longer terms depending on owner requirements. At the end of the lease term, the agreement typically converts to a year‑to‑year tenancy unless notice is given.

How long does it take to process my application?

Once an application is completed online, please allow 1–2 business days for processing. You will be notified by email regarding the outcome of your application.

How much can I qualify for?

Typically, we require monthly household income of applicants to be at least three times the total of the monthly rent amount. This may vary depending on what utilities are included in a particular property.

How much security deposit is required?

A security deposit is required on every property leased. Usually the security deposit is equal to one month’s rent. It may be more or less depending on the property, but will not exceed two months’ rent.

How quickly can I expect my maintenance request to be performed?

Maintenance requests are addressed in the order they are received unless deemed an emergency. Most requests are completed within 24–48 hours, though some may take up to five business days depending on the scope of the work.

I am a student or do not have enough income to qualify. Can I still lease a property?

Yes. We may require a qualified additional lease holder or guarantor. For full‑time students, student loans and other verified financial support may be considered as income.

I do not like the way a repair was done. What should I do?

Please contact our office immediately so we may investigate the issue. We will work directly with the contractor to address any concerns.

My water bill was high. What do I do?

A high water bill is often caused by a running toilet or hidden leak. Please report any suspected issues immediately so repairs can be made. Upon completion, documentation may be provided for your utility provider if required. You are responsible for contacting your utility company regarding any billing adjustment. Check under sinks weekly and ensure outdoor faucets are winterized.

What am I responsible for as a resident?

Typically, residents are responsible for securing utilities unless otherwise provided, maintaining lawn care unless stated in the lease, replacing HVAC filters monthly, completing minor repairs such as light bulbs and clogged drains, replacing smoke detector batteries during tenancy, managing pest control, complying with HOA rules if applicable, and following all terms of the lease agreement.

What do I do if I disagree with the refunded amount of my security deposit?

Any dispute regarding your security deposit must be submitted in writing to D.M. Rothwell, Inc. within 30 days of the date the deposit was returned.

What do I do in a maintenance emergency?

If your emergency is life‑threatening or could result in serious harm, dial 911 immediately. For other maintenance emergencies, please call our 24‑hour emergency line at 434‑257‑6858. Emergencies usually involve active water situations or conditions that may cause damage to the property.

What do I have to pay prior to moving in?

Prior to move‑in, residents must pay the full security deposit and the first month’s rent. Keys cannot be issued until these payments are received.

What do I need to do when I move out?

The property must be thoroughly cleaned, including carpets. All personal items must be removed, lawn areas maintained, required flea and tick treatments completed if applicable, and all keys returned. Refer to your lease agreement and official move‑out procedures for complete requirements.

What do you do with my security deposit after I move out?

After you vacate the property, we perform a move‑out inspection to compare the condition of the property to your move‑in inspection. Your security deposit is processed strictly in accordance with the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and your signed lease agreement. You will receive a Security Deposit Disposition and any refund within the required timeframe at the forwarding address you provide.

What factors do you use in determining if my application is approved?

We operate in strict compliance with all Fair Housing guidelines. Applications are reviewed based on rental and/or ownership history, credit report results, income verification, and employment history.

What happens if I bring in an application for a property that already has applications submitted?

All applications are processed on a first‑come, first‑served basis. If more than one application is submitted before approval, we are required to select the highest‑rated application in accordance with our fiduciary responsibility to the property owner.

What happens if I do not pay my last month’s rent?

You will be responsible for any applicable late fees and may be subject to legal action if outstanding balances remain after all charges are processed.

What happens if I do not pay my rent?

If rent is not received by 5pm on the 5th of the month, you may be considered in breach of your lease. Failure to make timely payment may result in legal action, including an Unlawful Detainer or Warrant in Debt filing, as permitted by law.

What happens if my check is returned?

If your check is returned, you will be notified and required to make immediate payment in certified funds to avoid further legal action. You will also be charged an NSF check fee and may be assessed an additional civil recovery fee as permitted by law.

What if I do not pay my outstanding charges?

Any outstanding charges not paid within 10 days of invoicing will become rent per your lease agreement and may be included in an Unlawful Detainer or Warrant‑in‑Debt proceeding.

What if my application is denied?

If your application is denied, we will make every effort to notify you promptly. Any deposit monies submitted will be returned as required.

What if my security deposit does not cover my charges?

If your security deposit does not cover all charges, you will receive a Security Deposit Disposition detailing the remaining balance due. Prompt payment or payment arrangements will be required to prevent further legal action.

What is an Unlawful Detainer filing?

An Unlawful Detainer filing is the first step in the eviction process. This legal action can remain on your record for years and may affect future housing and credit opportunities. Residents are responsible for associated legal costs if filed against them.

What is the difference between a sublease and an assignment of a lease?

A sublease occurs when a tenant leases the property to another party while remaining liable under the original lease. An assignment transfers the lease and all obligations entirely to another qualified tenant. We do not allow subleasing, but assignments may be considered for an approved replacement tenant and may require a processing fee.

What is your application fee?

The application fee is $65 per person and must be paid before an application can be accepted or processed.

When are late fees charged?

Rent is due on the 1st of each month. If rent is not received by 5pm on the 5th of the month, a late fee equal to 10% of the monthly rent may be assessed.

When are new properties posted?

Our website is updated continually to reflect our current inventory of available properties.

When can I get my security deposit back?

Under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, your security deposit will be returned within 45 days of move‑out, provided we have a valid forwarding address.

When do I have to return the keys after I move out?

Keys must be returned immediately at move‑out. You are not considered officially vacated until keys are returned. Failure to return all keys may result in a re‑keying fee being charged.

When is rent due?

Rent is due on the 1st of each month and is considered late after 5pm on the 5th of the month. Late fees are assessed according to the lease agreement.

Where can I find information on available properties?

Information on available properties can be found on our website, or by contacting our office by phone. Appointments may also be made to review available listings in person.

Who must fill out an application?

Each adult (any person 18 years of age or older) who will occupy the property is required to complete an application.

Why must all prospective tenants fill out an application?

Every adult who resides in the property must be approved and listed on the lease in order to have a legal right to occupy the home.

Maintenance

What is expected when you move out?

Check out this article on WikiHow for a clear picture and instructions on how to clean before moving out.

Cleaning Instructions Before Move Out

Please schedule your move-out appointment in advance so we can try accommodate everyone's schedule. All keys must be turned in at the time of the inspection. The walkthrough usually takes about 15 minutes. We are not able to allow extra time for cleaning. Receipts for carpet cleaning and preventative flea and should be provided at that time. It is our goal to return every deposit in full. We do not hold any deposits; they are all held by the owner of the property. Review your Lease Agreement, Resident Guide and Move Out Procedures to understand what is expected and required of renters at move-out. Cleaning is the most common charge to deposits. Start early because moving is stressful and always takes more time than we expect.

Quick Fixes and Troubleshooting Problems

Toilet Overflowing If your toilet starts to overflow, remove the tank lid and push the flapper down to stop water flow. Turn off the shut‑off valve. Clean up water and plunge. Call maintenance if the issue continues.

Garbage Disposal Makes No Noise Press the reset button on the bottom or side of the disposal. If it hums but does not spin, call maintenance.

No Lights in Bathrooms Reset the GFCI outlet located in the bathroom and check breakers. If power is not restored, call maintenance.

Refrigerator Loses Power Reset the kitchen GFCI outlet (usually near the sink) and check breakers. Call maintenance if power does not return.

Keep That Garbage Disposal Working Properly

If it’s hard, keep it out. No bones, pits, or shells.

Fiber clogs disposals. Avoid banana peels, celery, coffee grounds, corn husks, potato skins, rice, beans, and onion skins.

Smaller is better. Only food waste belongs in the disposal.

Always run cold water while using the disposal and for one full minute after. Never use hot water.

Clean regularly. Use ice cubes and occasional citrus rinds to remove residue and odors.

Make Your Air Conditioner Work More Efficiently

Leave the thermostat alone. Lowering it will not cool the home faster.

Close curtains and blinds. Reduce heat from sunlight.

Use fans. They circulate cool air efficiently.

Vent hot air. Use exhaust fans while cooking.

Use a dehumidifier. Lower humidity feels cooler.

Time chores wisely. Do heat‑producing tasks early or late.

Don’t Get Locked Out

Give a spare key to someone you trust. Lockouts after hours require calling Action Lock at 434‑974‑7880 and are at the resident’s expense.

Remember you are responsible for any maintenance or repair needed that is caused by your actions, treatment of the property or lack of attention to any issue with the property. Report problems quickly and live responsibly.

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Remember you are responsible for any maintenance or repair needed that is caused by your actions, treatment of the property or lack of attention to any issue with the property. Report problems quickly and live responsibly.