Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept government-assistance vouchers (such as Section 8, PHA)?

Yes, we do! However, we require that all tenants sign the lease we provide (not the lease provided by the housing agency), unless otherwise stated in the listing. This requirement may disqualify certain programs. A background and credit check is still required, along with a security deposit.

Do you allow month-to-month leases?

Our properties generally require annual leases, we may allow shorter leases depending on circumstances but there is typically a fee for shorter leases. Please contact us directly for details.

What is your policy on pets?

Pet friendly for approved animals in single family homes, with no more than two pets allowed. A $200 non-refundable pet administrative fee is required for the first pet and an additional $100 for the second pet. An additional $10 monthly rent is also required. Renters Insurance of $300,000 of liability coverage for animals over 25 lbs is required. All animals must have a current rabies vaccine per PA law. No dogs are permitted in multifamily units (unless legally registered as a service animal), and we do not allow exotic pets or fish tanks.

What if my pet is a registered service animal or an emotional support animal?

Registered service animals, with appropriate documentation of a disability-related need for the animal, are exempt from pet fees. Emotional support animals, with a signed emotional support letter from their mental health practitioner, are exempt from pet fees. The tenant can be required to pay for any damages caused by the animal during the lease agreement.

What utilities are the tenants responsible for?

For single family homes, the tenant is responsible for all utilities including cold water. For multi-family homes, the tenant is responsible for all utilities except cold water (unless otherwise specified in the listing). If the landlord pays for any utilities, tenant is still responsible for excessive usage (such as an unreported running toilet).

Do you allow cosigners?

If a cosigner is required (due to low credit or insufficient rental history), the cosigner will be required to meet all rental requirements. In addition, cosigners must also meet one of the following requirements: (1) own real estate in PA or NJ, (2) provide proof of funds of at least $10,000 in their personal name, (3) earn at least 5x the rent amount. All signed cosigner agreements must be notarized, with an original copy submitted to us for our records.

Do I have to submit an online application in order to view a property?

No, in fact, it is recommended that you view the property before submitting an application. We offer self guided showings here. We do also provide limited in-person showings.

Do you allow smoking?

No, we do not rent to smokers and we do not allow smoking of cigarettes, controlled substances, and use of vape products in any of our units.

Can I have a roommate, if I can't afford the rent on my own?

Yes, Philadelphia does allow for up to 3 unrelated tenants per property. We combine the total joint income on the application.

Why was my application denied?

Please contact us if you have specific questions about your application, but note that we are legally only able to provide limited information from your credit report, you must contact the credit bureau directly for any disputes.

Our screening criteria takes a number of factors into account. Including credit score, past due debt, total debt, income, eviction & criminal history, and references.

Do I have to pay for exterminator services?

In single family homes, it is the tenants responsibility to pay for all exterminator services. According to Partners for Good Housing (page 12), regarding insects and rodents, in one-family houses, the tenant or homeowner must keep the house clean and sanitary. It is the occupant’s responsibility to have insects, rodents, other pests exterminated.

In multi-family buildings, it is the landlords responsibility to pay for exterminator services. However, in multi-family homes, if it is found that the tenant's home is the only one infested then that tenant will be charged for the exterminator services.

All tenants must keep their home clean and sanitary at all times to avoid any pest issues.

Can I put the property on hold while processing my application?  

Unfortunately, we do not allow this. The first approved applicant will be able to submit a security deposit towards the home they applied to. The security deposit must be submitted within 3 business days of approval or we will move on to the next approved applicant. Once a security deposit has been put down, it is NON-REFUNDABLE if the applicant changes their mind. This is because we are taking the property off of the market and reserving it for the approved applicant.

Please note that we do continue marketing the property until an application is approved and all required documents are received; this process may take a few business days, so if you would like to know if we are already processing applications for this property before you tour or apply, please text us or leave a voicemail at 1-833-267-4400 or email us at leasing@khppm.com.

What policy do you have on plumbing charges during occupancy?

It is the tenant's responsibility to pay to keep all drains, toilets, sinks, and traps clear and unclogged. Before any tenant moves-in, the landlord clears all drains and sewer lines. Please note that cooking oil should be disposed of properly and not poured down drains. See https://www.phila.gov/water/PDF/ResidentOilGrease.pdf.

Why do I have to submit photos of my home?

We take pride in the cleanliness and condition of our properties. To help us ensure that we house responsible tenants, we require prospective tenants to submit photos of their current living room, common area, bedroom(s) and bathroom(s) as part of the overall screening process. We've found that applicants who keep their existing residence neat and clean are more likely to treat our properties with respect. We understand that everyone has different cleaning habits and standards and we aren't expecting perfection, just to see that the property is maintained to a reasonable standard. Please refer to the gallery below for sample photos.