Tenant FAQs

Properties are rented on a first-come, first-approved basis. We process applications in the order they are received and complete. To hold a unit before signing a lease, an approved applicant may pay a holding deposit, which is applied to the security deposit at lease signing. Holding deposit terms are documented in writing before payment.

Move-in costs typically include the first month's rent and a security deposit. Some properties may also require last month's rent or a pet deposit. The complete breakdown is provided in writing before you sign the lease.

Applicants must be 18 years or older to sign a lease in Texas. Applicants under 18 may be added to a lease as occupants if a qualified adult signs as the responsible tenant.

Security deposits are refundable, less any lawful deductions for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, or other amounts owed under the lease. Under Texas Property Code Section 92.103, refunds are returned within 30 days of move-out, along with an itemized statement of any deductions, provided the tenant has given a forwarding address in writing.

A cosigner may be required when an applicant does not meet our published screening criteria for income, credit, or rental history. Cosigners must independently qualify under the same financial criteria and sign a guaranty agreement. Cosigner requirements are applied consistently across all applicants.

Apply online through the resident portal. A complete application requires a government-issued ID, proof of income (typically two most recent pay stubs or three months of bank statements), prior rental history, and the application fee. Each adult occupant must submit a separate application. Most decisions are issued within two to three business days.

Rent is paid through the resident portal. ACH bank transfer is free. Card payments are accepted with a processing fee charged by the payment processor. The portal provides receipts, payment history, and automatic reminders.

Pet policies vary by property. Before bringing any pet onto the premises, contact Strago in writing and obtain written approval. Where pets are permitted, a pet deposit and monthly pet rent typically apply, and size or breed restrictions may apply. Assistance animals (service animals and emotional support animals) are accommodated in compliance with the Fair Housing Act and are not subject to pet deposits or pet rent.

All tenants on the lease are jointly and severally liable for the full lease term. If one roommate wants to leave, the remaining tenant must either qualify individually under our screening criteria or propose a replacement tenant who applies, qualifies, and is approved by Strago. Any change to the lease requires Strago's written approval, and a lease amendment fee may apply.

Notice requirements are set in your lease, typically 30 to 60 days before lease end. Submit written notice to vacate through your resident portal or by the method specified in your lease. We will provide move-out instructions, schedule a final inspection, and confirm the deposit refund timeline.

Submit all maintenance requests through your resident portal so they are tracked and scheduled. Strago coordinates repairs for normal wear, system failures, and conditions that affect health and safety as required under the Texas Property Code. Tenants are responsible for damage caused by negligence, misuse, or unauthorized modifications, and those costs may be billed back under the lease. For urgent safety issues, call the 24/7 emergency line listed on the Tenant Resources page rather than submitting through the portal.

Strago screens every applicant on the same criteria: credit history, income relative to rent, prior rental history, criminal background, and eviction history. The full screening criteria are published on the Tenant Resources page. We comply with the Fair Housing Act and the Texas Fair Housing Act in every application decision.

Renters insurance is required under most Strago leases. The lease will specify the minimum coverage and proof requirements. Renters insurance protects your personal belongings and provides personal liability coverage that the landlord's policy does not.

Early lease termination is governed by your lease and Texas Property Code. In most cases, the tenant remains responsible for rent until the unit is re-leased, plus any reletting fee specified in the lease. Certain protected situations under Texas law, including family violence, military deployment, and specific health and safety conditions, allow for statutory early termination rights. Contact Strago as soon as you anticipate needing to leave early and let us work with you to navigate the best next step.