Tenant FAQs

Answers to your frequently asked questions

• How do I apply for a rental property managed by Caddie?

  Applications are submitted online. Every adult occupant (18+) who will be living in the property must submit a separate application.

  You will be asked to provide:

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Proof of income — pay stubs, bank statements, or offer letter
  • Rental history — prior landlord contact information
  • Authorization for credit, background, and eviction checks

• What are the rental application requirements?

  Caddie applies the following criteria consistently to all applicants:

  • Income: Verifiable gross monthly income of at least 2.5–3x the monthly rent
  • Credit: Credit history reviewed for payment patterns, not just score
  • Rental history: Prior landlords contacted directly
  • Background: Criminal background and identity verified
  • Eviction history: Prior eviction filings reviewed

  All criteria are applied uniformly to every applicant in compliance with federal Fair Housing law and Iowa's Civil Rights Act.

• Who do I contact for maintenance requests?

  Caddie Property Management is your primary point of contact for all maintenance requests, inquiries, and notices — not the property owner directly.

  Maintenance requests should be submitted through the tenant portal.

  Emergency maintenance issues — no heat, water intrusion, gas leak, or anything affecting health and safety — should be reported immediately by phone.

• How quickly are maintenance requests handled?

  Non-emergency requests are acknowledged same-day and scheduled promptly with communication throughout.

  Emergency issues — including anything affecting heat, water, or habitability — are dispatched immediately without waiting for owner approval.

• When is rent due and what happens if I pay late?

  Rent is due on the 1st of each month.

  Interest accrues on delinquent rent at 9% per annum beginning on the 6th day of the month. A late fee of $20.00 per day applies beginning on the 6th day of the month the rent is due, up to a maximum of $60.00 per month.

  If rent is unpaid, Caddie will issue a 3-day notice to pay or quit in accordance with Iowa law. Failure to pay within that window may result in the landlord initiating eviction proceedings.

• How do I pay rent?

  Rent can be paid electronically through the tenant portal.

  If paying by credit card or other electronic payment method, additional transaction fees may apply. All payment details are provided at lease signing.

• Can I have pets?

  Pets require prior written approval. To request pet approval, submit a completed Pet Application form to Caddie.

  If approved, a pet fee of $35.00 per month per approved pet applies, and no more than two pets are permitted.

  Under federal Fair Housing law and Iowa law, service animals and emotional support animals are not pets and cannot be denied or charged a pet fee based on a no-pets policy. If you have a service or emotional support animal, contact Caddie to discuss the accommodation process.

• Can I smoke in the property?

  No. Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside the dwelling unit and in all common areas. This applies to occupants, guests, and invitees.

• Can I sublet the property or add a roommate?

  Subletting or assigning the lease is not permitted without the landlord's written consent.

  If you want to add an occupant to the property who is not on the original lease, contact Caddie before doing so.

• What are my maintenance responsibilities as a tenant?

  Tenants are responsible for:

  • Keeping the unit clean and safe
  • Disposing of trash and garbage properly
  • Maintaining plumbing fixtures in clean condition
  • Using all appliances and systems reasonably
  • Lawn mowing (at least 3 times per month per the standard lease)
  • Snow removal — clearing the driveway and all walkways within 48 hours of a snow event
  • Setting up all utilities (electric, gas, water, trash) in your name

  If Caddie has to perform lawn or snow removal due to tenant non-compliance, a commercially reasonable fee will be charged to the tenant.

• What do I need to do when I move out?

  You are responsible for leaving the property in a clean, undamaged condition, consistent with the move-in inspection report.

  Iowa law requires that your security deposit be returned — or an itemized statement of deductions provided — within 30 days of the tenancy ending.

  Normal wear and tear is not deductible. Damage beyond normal use may be deducted from your deposit with documentation.

• What are my rights as a tenant under Iowa law?

  Iowa tenants have substantial rights under Iowa Code Chapter 562A, the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, including:

  • The right to a habitable dwelling maintained by the landlord
  • The right to 24 hours' advance notice before landlord entry, except emergencies
  • The right to have security deposits returned or accounted for within 30 days of move-out
  • Protection from retaliation and self-help eviction
  • Fair housing protections under applicable federal and Iowa law

  For a full overview of Iowa rental law, see our Iowa Rental Laws guide.

• How do I give notice that I'm moving out?

  Written notice of termination must be provided at least 30 days before the end of the lease term.

  Notice can be delivered by hand, certified mail, or electronic communication per the lease terms.

  If neither party gives notice before the end of the 12-month term, the lease automatically continues month-to-month.

• Who do I contact if I have a dispute or concern?

  All inquiries, concerns, and notices should be directed to Caddie Property Management — not the property owner.

  If a dispute cannot be resolved directly, the lease provides for mediation for at least 10 days before any formal legal action.

This FAQ reflects Caddie Property Management's standard practices and current lease and management agreement terms as of 2026. Individual lease agreements may vary. Iowa landlord-tenant law is subject to change. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.