FAQs

THE COVE AT CRYSTAL LAKE

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers make for confident decisions. To help save you time, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of answers to the questions we hear most often from our residents and applicants. Please review our complete list of FAQs below to learn more about our leasing process, community features, and policies. Still curious about something? Contact our team today—we are always happy to help!

  • Our Apartments and Availability

    Apartment Availability

    Discover our Availability Page for instant access to our currently available units in real time.


    Scheduling an Apartment Tour

    Appointments are necessary to tour our community during business hours. Scheduling appointments with us is hassle-free. Just visit our availability page, choose a floor plan that suits you, and click the "Schedule Tour" button.


    Office Hours

    Our leasing staff is usually available for appointments Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm. Appointments are recommended as they have other obligations that take them out of the office from time to time.


    Response Time

    Please be aware that our typical response time is 1-2 business days. We kindly ask for your patience as our staff reviews your information, enabling them to respond appropriately.


    Reporting Resident Concerns

    We take concerns very seriously and address them appropriately. Please remember that all residents are required to follow our rules and regulations. If you have any concerns, please report them immediately to the leasing staff.


    Our Apartment Community


    Apartments

    We offer a variety of apartment options to meet your needs, ranging from one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes. Certain apartments also include a den/office flex space, providing added versatility to fit your lifestyle. Our standard lease term is 12 months, and please note that we do not participate in housing assistance programs.


    Clubhouse

    Experience the all-new, beautifully renovated clubhouse your ultimate community hub. Enjoy a stylish lounge area perfect for relaxing or socializing, a modern community kitchen ideal for hosting events, a private movie theater for cozy screenings, a library and a fully equipped fitness center to elevate your workouts.


    Outdoor Community Area

    Discover your inner athlete at our outdoor sports area, featuring a dynamic basketball court perfect for unleashing your competitive spirit. And for those seeking a moment of tranquility, cast your worries away while fishing from our dock in a serene catch-and-release setting. There's something for everyone to enjoy in our outdoor oasis.


    Mail and Packages

    We provide a secured mailroom and offer secure package delivery through Amazon Hub. However, please note that we are unable to receive or sign for packages on behalf of residents. Additionally, we are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged packages, and all concerns regarding packages must be addressed directly with the carrier.


    Garbage and Recycling

    We offer residents a designated area for the disposal of both garbage and recycling materials.

  • Application Processing

    How to Apply

    Visit our website and navigate to our availability page. From there, select your desired floor plan and click on the "Apply Now" button to proceed with your application. As the initial applicant completing this application, you will be recognized as the primary applicant. If you intend to live with additional occupants, you must provide their name(s) and email address in the designated section. They will then receive an invitation to apply for residency. Please be aware that all occupants over the age of 18 must complete their own application and pay a separate application fee.


    Application Fees

    All applicants must be 18 years or older. All adults who wish to occupy the unit must complete their own rental application and pay the application fee. Application fees are non-refundable regardless of screening outcomes.


    Application Processing Time

    Applications are processed in the order they are received. Please anticipate a processing time of up to 5 business days for your application to be thoroughly reviewed.


    Approved Applications

    All approved applicants will be required to sign the lease agreement and pay the security deposit within 2 business days of the approval. The base security deposit is due immediately upon lease signing. Any pet deposits and first month's charges (pro-rated if applicable) are due on the lease start date.


    Denied Applications

    If your application is denied, you will not be eligible for residency. As per company policy, you will not be considered for an apartment again until 6 months have passed, and you complete a new application.


    Security Deposit

    Our screening process considers various factors. Upon approval of your application, the security deposit required may range from $800 up to five times the monthly rent. Please note that our company policy does not permit the use of co-signers. However, you may still request financial assistance from the individual who would otherwise have provided their support. Use our security deposit calculator to estimate your security deposit.

  • Utility Responsibility

    As the tenant, you're responsible for covering all utilities listed below unless specified otherwise by the landlord, with late payments considered a breach of the rental agreement. Management isn't liable for any losses or damages resulting from utility issues unless directly caused by their negligence. Tampering with utility meters or systems is strictly prohibited and constitutes a serious breach of the lease.


    Utilities Paid by YOU


    Electricity

    Individually metered. LESSEE shall call Wisconsin Public Service to have the unit electric meter put in their name as of the Commencement Date and will keep the electric meter in their name until the last day they are responsible to pay rent.


    Gas

    Individually metered for buildings 1305, 1310, 1315, 1316, 1320, 1325, and 1330. LESSEE shall call Wisconsin Public Service to have the unit gas meter put in their name as of the Commencement Date and will keep the gas meter in their name until the last day they are responsible to pay rent.


    Water/Sewer/Public Fire

    This shall include all charges listed on the master meter utility bill received by LESSOR as well as a replacement/repair reserves fee for the water billing infrastructure. Individual unit water/sewer usage charges are calculated using a sub-meter for the Premises and all other charges not allocated by the sub-meters will be divided equally amongst the units.


    Trash

    Trash expenses encompass all charges listed on the invoice received by the Property Management. These costs are evenly divided among the units serviced by the dumpsters.


    Administrative Billing Fee

    This fee is charged by the vendor for preparation of the prorated and sub-metered billings and the actual cost of this fee will be added to the utility bill. The fee as of 12/14/2023 was $3.50/month.


    Internet

    We have a community-wide bulk bill agreement in place to provide high speed 1G fiber internet to all units at a very competitive price. Participation is required by all residents. The cost to residents is $60/month. This price includes all taxes and fees, as well as all required equipment like the modem and router.


    Utilities Paid by the Landlord


    Gas

    Buildings 1356, 1366, 1376, 1386, 1396 there is no gas service to these buildings


    Common Area Electricity

    Common area electricity in a community refers to the power used for shared spaces like hallways, exterior lighting, lobbies, and outdoor amenities

  • Risk Protection Fee

    All residents are responsible for paying an $8/month Risk Protection Fee in lieu of the landlord requiring renter’s insurance. This fee primarily covers the cost of an insurance policy that provides liability coverage to reimburse the landlord for accidental damage caused by the resident. Resident personal property coverage is possible under this policy, but is secondary to full cost recovery by the landlord for damages. Residents are encouraged to obtain a renter’s insurance policy if additional coverage is desired. 

  • Rental Payments and Resident Portal

    Resident Portal

    We offer an online resident portal, providing access 24/7. Through this portal, you can make payments, request services, learn valuable information about your community, and view your rent ledger at your convenience.


    RentCafe Mobile App

    Our online portal is available as a convenient mobile app on the App Store! Download the RentCafe app today to manage your account, submit maintenance requests, and stay connected with community updates from your smartphone or tablet.


    Rental Payments

    All rental and utility payments are due on the first of the month, and we do not offer a grace period. Please be aware that late fees and NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds) fees may apply for overdue or returned payments. We strongly encourage utilizing our online portal for rent payments. Please note that any rent paid with a check will incur a $15 admin fee.


    Automatic Payments

    We encourage all residents to set up automatic payments directly on their online portal for convenience and to ensure timely payments.

  • Lease Terms and Renewals

    Lease Term

    We offer a standard 12-month lease option for our residents, providing a secure place to call home and peace of mind with the same rental rate throughout your lease term.


    Occupancy and Vehicle Limits

    Each apartment has specific occupancy and vehicle limits in place to comply with company policy and local regulations, ensuring the comfort and safety of all residents. These limits are designed to maintain a pleasant living environment and adhere to legal requirements.


    Lease Renewals/Rent Increases

    Lease renewal notices are usually sent 60-90 days prior to your lease end date, giving you the chance to choose the term that fits your needs. If no term is selected, or a notice to vacate isn't submitted, your lease will automatically renew at the month-to-month rate. Please be aware that with lease renewals, rent increases may apply if the market rents in your community have increased. These rent increases allow us to maintain the quality of our community and cover increases in expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance .


    Adding Additional Occupants

    If you wish to add an additional occupant, anyone who wishes to reside in the apartment must complete an application, pay the application fee, and be approved before moving in. Additionally, please note that all apartments have occupancy limits.

  • Maintenance

    On-Site Maintenance Staff

    We have on-site maintenance. We offer 24-hour emergency maintenance so when issues do arise, we've got you covered!


    Submitting Maintenance Requests

    It is recommended to submit maintenance concerns directly on your online portal. However, we understand this may not always be possible. In the event you cannot submit a concern online, please reach out to the leasing staff, and they will start a work order request on your behalf.


    Maintenance Service Appointments

    You are not required to be present for service appointments. However, we do ask that all pets be secured during our scheduled visits. We will provide a 12 hour notice, unless agreed upon otherwise.


    Emergency Maintenance

    We offer 24/7 emergency maintenance services; please call our emergency maintenance line and follow the instructions provided in the recording Be advised that in the event of emergent situations, we have the right to enter without notice.


    Failure to Report a Maintenance Concern

    Remember, you are responsible to report maintenance issues, especially ones that can result in additional damage if not reported in a timely manner. Failure to report concerns outlined in the lease agreement may result in tenant charges. Failure to report dripping faucets or running toilets can result in large utility bills that would your responsibility if not reported.

  • Move In/Move Out

    Moving In


    Lease Start Date and Move-In Time

    Your lease begins officially at 12:00 pm (noon). Please be aware that access to your apartment will not be granted before this time. Should you require an earlier move-in, please reach out to our leasing staff for approval. Additionally, on move-in day, your first rent payment is due.


    Moving Trucks

    Please note that moving trucks must not block any entryways or inconvenience fellow residents during your move. Additionally, please be aware that moving trucks are not permitted to remain on the property overnight.


    Storage Pods

    Storage pods are permitted with special consideration for a maximum duration of one week (7 days). These pods must be placed in your designated parking spot. It's important to ensure that they do not inconvenience other residents and are not placed in visitor parking areas. Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining a harmonious living environment for all.


    Statement of Unit Condition

    Please note that you have 7 days from your lease start date to document any pre-existing conditions and return the completed form along with required photos to the leasing staff. It's crucial to promptly complete this assessment within the specified timeframe to ensure accuracy and address any concerns promptly.


    Moving Out


    Notice to Vacate

    As per the terms outlined in the lease, a 60-day notice is required. Providing this notice does not release you from fulfilling your lease term. Click here to access our notice to vacate form, and upon submission, you will receive an auto-generated confirmation via Wufoo; we recommend saving it for your records. Please allow our leasing staff up to 3 business days to process your notice to vacate. Once processed, you will receive an email from our leasing staff.


    Break Lease

    You are responsible for fulfilling your rent obligations as outlined in your lease agreement. In the event of break lease, a 60-day notice is still required. We promptly advertise your apartment upon receipt of the notice. You remain responsible for all charges until your lease end date or until your unit is re-rented. Additionally, a $350 break lease fee applies.


    Early Termination Fee Option

    Depending on the time of year and occupancy rate of the property, we may also offer the option to pay a fee equal to 3 months' rent in exchange for ending your lease immediately upon the later of your move out date or the date you agree to the fee. This payment must be made in full before you are released from your obligations, and you would still be responsible for any damage within the unit.


    Maintenance Move-Out Pre-Inspection

    Within 30 days of submitting your notice to vacate, our leasing and maintenance team will schedule a brief walk-through of your apartment. During this inspection, our team will note any areas of concern or those needing upgrades. Your presence is not required for this walk-through.


    Resident Move-Out Inspection

    We do not offer personal move-out inspections. Instead, please refer to the move-out checklist provided by our leasing staff in response to your notice to vacate. Please be advised that failure to comply with the cleaning checklist will result in charges in accordance with your lease agreement.


    Security Deposit Refund

    Upon move-out, your security deposit refund will be processed within 21 days in accordance with state guidelines.  Refunds are issued via electronic funds transfer (EFT) to the bank account currently on file. Once processed, please allow 4–5 business days for the funds to become available in your account.  Tenants are responsible for distributing any refunded amounts to roommates or other leaseholders, if applicable.  To ensure transparency and fairness, any deductions from the security deposit will be outlined in a detailed move-out statement, which will be available in your resident portal. This documentation may include supporting photos and, if applicable, your original statement of unit condition for reference

  • Pets

    We Accept Pets

    Our community is happy to accept cats, dogs, and small caged animals with approval. Maximum of 2 pets per apartment. Click here to view our Pet Policy page.


    Pet Rules and Regulations

    It is mandatory for all animals to be up to date on vaccinations. For the safety of everyone, dogs and other animals must be leashed at all times; tie-outs are not permitted. Moreover, it is essential to promptly pick up all pet waste and dispose of it immediately. All pet habitats, including litterboxes, must be maintained frequently. Pet waste should not be left outside doors or garages and cannot be stored in garages if it results in unpleasant odors. The owner of the pet is responsible for all related pet damages, both indoor and outdoor. These damage charges are in addition to the monthly pet fees.


    Adding a Pet

    Please note that all pets must receive approval from management. To add a pet to the lease, you must obtain approval from management. If you are found with an unapproved pet, you will be subject to fees as outlined in your lease.