FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
General
Q: Can I install cable or satellite TV at the property?
A: This varies by property and is ultimately up to the property owner. You must contact Virtue PM to discuss and receive approval before installation. Written permission is required.
Q: What are my privacy rights if the landlord needs to enter?
A: We respect your privacy. Under Montana law, landlords must provide at least 24 hours' notice before entering for non-emergencies. Emergency entry without notice may occur when necessary.
Q: Can I sublease my rental?
A: No, subleasing is not permitted.
Q: Can I clean the carpets myself when I move out?
A: Yes. Please provide a receipt for the professional equipment used (such as a steam cleaner).
Q: What pets are allowed?
A: Rules vary by property. Call Virtue PM at 406-399-0030 for details.
Q: What is considered a service animal?
A: Under the ADA, a service animal is a dog trained to perform tasks directly related to a person's disability. Requests for service animals must go through PetScreening.
Q: Can I add a pet after I move in?
A: Yes—if approved. You must:
Contact Virtue PM
Complete a PetScreening profile
Sign a pet agreement and pay deposits (in verified funds)
Unauthorized pets may result in fines or lease termination.
Moving Out & Deposits
Q: How do I give notice to vacate?
A: A 30-day written notice is required before your lease end date. Notices must be emailed to Rebecca@virtuepmllc.com and must include:
Your rental property address
Intended move-out date
Forwarding address for your security deposit return
Q: What happens if my roommate moves out early?
A: The lease remains binding until it ends. The security deposit stays with the lease, not the individual roommate. If one roommate leaves early, it is up to the tenants to work out reimbursement arrangements among themselves. All tenants listed remain responsible for the full lease terms.
Rent & Payments
Q: When is rent due?
A: Rent is due on the 1st of each month and must be received by 5:00 PM on the 3rd. Any payment received after that time is considered late, and late fees will be automatically applied according to your lease agreement.
Q: What are the late fee charges?
A: Late fees are outlined in your lease and are applied automatically if rent is received after the 3rd at 5:00 PM. Please note: Contacting Virtue PM about a late payment does not guarantee late fees will be waived.
Q: Why did my auto-pay get declined?
A: Common reasons include insufficient funds, incorrect account info, or mis-keyed entries. Please update your payment method or use verified funds.
Q: What happens if I don't pay rent on time?
A: You'll be in breach of your lease. We'll send written notice with time to correct it. If unpaid, eviction proceedings may begin. Call us right away if you're having payment issues: 406-399-0030.
Q: What if my bank caused the late payment?
A: Any fees from your bank are your responsibility. This is separate from late rent fees.
Q: What happens if I bounce a check?
A: A charge of $30 per bounced check will be applied to your account, along with any applicable late fees.
Q: Where can I pay rent?
Mail payments to: PO Box 1365, Havre, MT 59501
Drop-box location: Stokes Market – 730 1st St, Havre, MT 59501
Please allow sufficient mailing time—late mail delivery does not waive late fees.
Q: What if the online payment system doesn't work?
A: You're still responsible for on-time payment. If the system is down, please submit payment in verified funds (such as a cashier's check or certified funds) before the grace period ends.
Maintenance & Emergencies
Q: How do I request maintenance?
A: All routine maintenance requests must be submitted through your tenant portal. Please include a detailed description and photos when possible.
Q: What is considered a maintenance emergency?
A: Emergencies are issues that pose an immediate threat to health, safety, or property. Examples include:
No heat in winter
Active water leaks or flooding
Sewer backups
Gas leaks or strong odors
Electrical issues posing fire risk
Broken locks or windows affecting security
If you experience an emergency, call Virtue PM immediately at 406-399-0030.
Q: What if I smell gas or suspect a gas leak?
A: Leave the home immediately and call NorthWestern Energy's emergency line at 888-467-2669, then notify Virtue PM.
Q: Who is responsible for minor repairs?
A: Tenants are responsible for day-to-day upkeep, including:
Changing furnace filters and light bulbs
Replacing smoke/CO detector batteries
Keeping drains clear of clogs
Yard care and snow removal (if required by your lease)
Virtue PM handles larger repairs and system failures.
Q: How quickly will non-emergency repairs be addressed?
A: We respond as quickly as possible based on urgency and vendor availability. Some repairs may take longer if parts need to be ordered or scheduling with contractors is required.
Insurance & Utilities
Q: Do I need renter's insurance?
A: Yes. Virtue PM strongly recommends renter's insurance. The property's insurance policy covers the building only, not your personal belongings. Renter's insurance typically protects against theft, fire, water damage, and liability.
Q: Who provides utilities?
A: Local gas and electric services are provided by NorthWestern Energy.
? Contact: 888-467-2669
Notice to Vacate Template
Tenants may copy/paste this email format when submitting notice to: Rebecca@virtuepmllc.com
Subject: Notice to Vacate – [Your Rental Address]
Hello,
This email serves as my 30-day written notice to vacate.
Rental Address: [Your full address]
Intended Move-Out Date: [Date]
Forwarding Address: [Address for security deposit return]
Thank you,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone Number]