FAQ

  • What is the minimum rental term?

    We manage long-term leases—most of our rentals have initial one-year leases.

  • Are pets allowed in rentals?

    Pets are allowed in some of the rental units that we manage. Please take a look at the rental description to see if we have included a “Pets allowed” checkmark.

  • Do you offer furnished and unfinished rentals?

    Yes, we manage both furnished and unfurnished rentals. If a rental is furnished, we note this in the property description.

  • When are showings offered?

    We set up one-on-one showings at convenient times for tenant applicants, usually on early weekday evenings and on weekends. If you’d like to see a property at a certain time, please email us and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

  • How do you determine who rents the property?

    Birds Nest Properties carries out tenant screenings/interviews, as well as confidential credit and reference checks. Once an applicant(s) is considered eligible, we propose the applicant(s) to the owner, and the owner ultimately makes the final decision.

  • How do tenants pay rent?

    Generally, rent is withdrawn each month from a tenant’s bank account through a pre-authorized debit (PAD) agreement.

  • How do you determine the amount of the security deposit? And when is it returned?

    The security deposit is equal to half of the first months’ rent. An additional half months’ rent is charged as pet deposit, if applicable. The security and pet deposits will be returned in full (provided there are no damages) within 15 days following a move-out inspection.

  • What is a tenant responsible for?

    A tenant is expected to maintain proper care of the unit. This includes regular cleaning of carpets, walls, windows, and blinds. In a single-family home, the tenant is also responsible for yard maintenance (lawn mowing and trimming). A professional cleaning is required to be arranged and paid for by the tenant upon move-out. Cable, internet, and utilities are also generally excluded from rent, and paid for by the tenant.

  • How do I report a repair?

    If you are need of a repair, please fill out a maintenance request:
    birdsnestproperties.ca/maintenance-request/

  • Can tenants affix a TV to a wall?

    Yes, but we ask that the wall is repaired upon move-out.

  • Do I need insurance?

    Yes, it is important for both tenants and owners to have active insurance policies. Tenant insurance covers tenants belongings and temporary relocation costs (due to an insured loss), while landlord insurance includes rental income loss (due to an insured loss) and coverage for fixtures within the property. Both policies include liability coverage. For more information, please contact a licensed insurance broker.

  • Is Birds Nest Properties licensed?

    Yes, we are a licensed brokerage with the BC Financial Services Authority. Working with a licensed property manager ensures your investment property/home will be well maintained and cared for, and that the consumer protection standards of the BC Financial Services Authority Act are enforced.

  • Does Birds Nest Properties charge tenants a service fee?

    No, we do not charge tenants a fee for our services.