1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
If this property was built before 1978, the following applies:
- Month2Month will disclose any known lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the property prior to lease execution.
- Month2Month will provide all available records and reports pertaining to lead-based paint in the property.
- The tenant will receive a copy of the EPA-approved pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home."
For more information: National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or www.epa.gov/lead.
2. Security Deposit
Deposit Limits
Pursuant to AS §34.03.070, the security deposit may not exceed two months' rent. This applies regardless of whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished.
Permitted Uses
Your security deposit may be used for: unpaid rent; costs to repair damages to the premises caused by the tenant beyond ordinary wear and tear; utility charges unpaid by the tenant; and other amounts owed under the rental agreement.
Return of Deposit
Pursuant to AS §34.03.070(g), the landlord shall return the deposit or provide a written itemized statement of deductions within 14 days after the tenant has vacated the premises and provided a proper mailing address for return. If the landlord retains any portion and fails to provide the itemized list within 30 days, the landlord forfeits the right to withhold any portion of the deposit.
Disputes
If the landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement within the required timeframe, the tenant may bring a civil action. The court may award the tenant the amount wrongfully withheld, plus damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney's fees.
3. Owner and Property Manager Information
Pursuant to AS §34.03.080, the landlord shall disclose to the tenant in writing at or before the commencement of the tenancy:
- The name and address of the person authorized to manage the premises
- The name and address of an owner of the premises or a person authorized to act on behalf of the owner for the purpose of service of process and receiving notices and demands
Your lease agreement contains the specific owner information, property manager contact information, and emergency maintenance contact for your property. Month2Month serves as the property manager for all properties in our portfolio.
General Contact: [email protected]
4. Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
All Month2Month rental properties are equipped with operable smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in compliance with Alaska law and the Alaska Building Code. Smoke detectors are installed in each sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the dwelling. Carbon monoxide detectors are installed in dwellings with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages.
Tenant Responsibilities
- Do not disable, disconnect, cover, or tamper with any smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector.
- Test all devices monthly by pressing the test button.
- Report immediately if any device is chirping, not functioning, or missing.
- Do not remove batteries.
- If you hear the carbon monoxide alarm sound continuously, evacuate immediately and call 911.
Month2Month is responsible for ensuring all devices are operable at the beginning of each tenancy and for maintaining them throughout, including replacing batteries and units as needed.
5. Mold Disclosure
Mold can cause health problems, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. While Alaska does not have a specific mold disclosure statute, landlords must maintain premises in a habitable condition under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which includes addressing mold conditions that affect habitability.
Month2Month is not aware of any mold in the rental property that exceeds permissible exposure limits or poses a health threat at the time of your lease. If mold is discovered during your tenancy, Month2Month will take appropriate remediation action.
Tenant Responsibilities to Prevent Mold
- Ventilate your home: Alaska's cold climate requires homes to be tightly sealed, which can trap moisture. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and open windows briefly when weather permits to allow air exchange.
- Control moisture: Wipe up spills and leaks immediately, do not let water accumulate, and report any leaks or water damage to Month2Month immediately.
- Manage condensation: Condensation on windows is common in Alaska during cold months. Wipe down windows regularly and maintain adequate ventilation. Use dehumidifiers if available.
- Use heating properly: Maintain consistent heating to prevent cold spots where condensation can form. Do not turn off heat in unused rooms during winter.
- Clean regularly: Regular cleaning prevents mold from establishing itself.
- Report problems immediately: If you see mold, smell musty odors, or notice water damage, report it to Month2Month right away.
Alaska's cold climate and tightly sealed homes create unique moisture challenges. The temperature differential between heated interiors and extremely cold exteriors can cause condensation, making moisture management critical for mold prevention.
6. Bed Bug Disclosure
While Alaska does not have a specific bed bug disclosure statute, landlords are required under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to maintain the premises in a habitable condition, which includes addressing pest infestations including bed bugs.
Identification
Bed bugs have six legs and flat bodies about 1/4 inch long, ranging from red-brown to copper colored. They do not fly but move quickly over surfaces. They hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, furniture crevices, baseboards, and wall cracks. They feed on human blood at night.
Signs of Infestation
Look for small blood stains on sheets, dark spots (excrement) on mattresses or walls, shed skins, and a sweet musty odor. Bites may appear as red, itchy welts in a line or cluster, though some people do not react.
Prevention
- Inspect your mattress, box spring, and bed frame regularly.
- When traveling, inspect hotel rooms and luggage before returning home.
- Do not bring used mattresses or upholstered furniture into the home without thorough inspection.
- Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places.
Month2Month has no knowledge of any bed bug infestation in your specific rental unit. If Month2Month becomes aware of bed bug infestation during your tenancy, you will be notified immediately and professional treatment will be arranged.
7. Domestic Violence Protections
Right to Terminate Lease Early
Pursuant to AS §34.03.340, a tenant who is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking may terminate a rental agreement by providing the landlord with written notice at least 30 days before the termination date, accompanied by one of the following:
- A copy of a protective order issued by a court
- A copy of a written report from a peace officer stating that the tenant or a household member is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking
- A written certification from an prior authorized domestic violence or sexual assault program
Right to Request Lock Changes
A tenant who is a victim may request that the landlord change the locks to the dwelling unit. Month2Month will change the locks within a reasonable time of receiving a written request accompanied by qualifying documentation. If Month2Month is unable to change the locks promptly, the tenant may change the locks and must provide a copy of the new key to Month2Month.
Protection from Eviction
A landlord may not terminate a tenancy, refuse to renew a rental agreement, or retaliate against a tenant based on the tenant's status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
Confidentiality
Month2Month will maintain the confidentiality of any information provided by a tenant who is a victim. Documentation provided will be kept in a secure file and will not be disclosed to third parties except as required by law.
Resources
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224)
- Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (ANDVSA): www.andvsa.org · (907) 586-3650
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
- Alaska Legal Services Corporation: www.alsc-law.org · 1-888-478-2572
8. Earthquake Preparedness
Alaska experiences thousands of earthquakes each year, including several magnitude 7.0 or greater earthquakes per decade. The 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake (magnitude 9.2) remains the most powerful earthquake recorded in North American history.
Tenant Preparedness
- Emergency supplies: Maintain a supply of water (one gallon per person per day for at least 7 days), non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, warm clothing, and sleeping bags.
- Secure heavy items: Anchor bookshelves, water heaters, and heavy appliances to wall studs. Do not place heavy objects on high shelves above sleeping areas.
- Know your tsunami zone: If your property is in a coastal area, determine whether you are in a tsunami evacuation zone and know the evacuation route. Move to high ground immediately if you feel strong or prolonged shaking near the coast.
- Drop, Cover, Hold On: During an earthquake, drop to your hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Know utility shutoffs: Know how to shut off gas, water, and electricity in the event of an emergency.
- Stay informed: Sign up for Alaska Division of Homeland Security alerts and monitor local media during seismic events.
- Renter's insurance: Standard renter's insurance typically does not cover earthquake damage. Consider supplemental earthquake coverage to protect your personal property.
After an Earthquake
- Check for injuries and provide first aid.
- If you smell gas, leave the building immediately and call 911. Do not use matches, lighters, or electrical switches.
- Report any structural damage to Month2Month as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Be prepared for aftershocks, which can occur for hours, days, or weeks after a major earthquake.
- Document damage with photographs before making temporary repairs.
Month2Month maintains appropriate insurance coverage on all properties. However, the property owner's insurance does not cover tenant personal property. You are strongly encouraged to obtain renter's insurance to protect your belongings.
9. Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Alaska's Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) governs the rights and obligations of both landlords and tenants in residential rental properties.
Landlord Obligations
Pursuant to AS §34.03.100, the landlord shall:
- Comply with all applicable building and housing codes materially affecting health and safety
- Make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to put and keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition
- Keep all common areas in a clean and safe condition
- Maintain in good and safe working order and condition all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and other facilities and appliances, including elevators, supplied or required to be supplied by the landlord
- Provide and maintain appropriate receptacles and conveniences for the removal of garbage and waste, and arrange for their removal
- Supply running water, reasonable amounts of hot water, and adequate heat at all times
- Provide smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in working order
Tenant Obligations
Pursuant to AS §34.03.120, the tenant shall:
- Keep the part of the premises occupied and used as clean and safe as the condition of the premises permits
- Dispose of all garbage and waste in a clean and safe manner
- Keep all plumbing fixtures as clean as their condition permits
- Use all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and other facilities and appliances in a reasonable manner
- Not deliberately or negligently destroy, deface, damage, impair, or remove any part of the premises
- Conduct oneself in a manner that will not disturb other tenants' peaceful enjoyment
- Not unreasonably withhold consent for the landlord to enter the dwelling unit to make necessary repairs
Tenant Remedies
If the landlord fails to comply with the URLTA, the tenant may, after providing written notice and allowing a reasonable time to cure, pursue remedies including:
- Terminating the rental agreement if the noncompliance materially affects health and safety
- Arranging for repair and deducting the cost from rent, if the cost does not exceed one month's rent
- Pursuing civil action for damages, including actual damages and injunctive relief
- Recovering reasonable attorney's fees and court costs
10. Furnished Property Disclosure
All Month2Month rental properties are provided fully furnished. All furniture, appliances, fixtures, and household items in the property are the property of Month2Month or the property owner and are provided for your use during the term of your lease.
Your Responsibilities
- Maintain all furnished items in the same condition as received, allowing for ordinary wear and tear.
- Use all items for their intended purpose only.
- Do not remove any furnished items from the property.
- Report any damage to furnished items within 48 hours of discovery.
- Do not repair or replace items yourself without prior written approval.
Damage vs. Normal Wear and Tear
| Normal Wear and Tear (Not Chargeable) | Damage (Chargeable to Tenant) |
|---|---|
| Minor scuffs on furniture | Broken furniture legs, arms, or frames |
| Slight fading of upholstery | Stains, tears, or burns on upholstery |
| Minor mattress indentation from normal use | Mattress stains, tears, or structural damage |
| Light scratches on hard floors | Deep gouges, water damage, or burns on flooring |
| Normal appliance wear (cosmetic marks) | Appliance malfunction due to misuse or neglect |
| Gradual thinning of towels and linens | Bleach stains, tears, or missing linens |
| Normal dulling of kitchen knives | Missing, broken, or chipped dishes/cookware |
| Loose doorknobs from use | Holes in walls, broken blinds, damaged doors |
Replacement Responsibility
- Tenant-caused damage: Tenant is responsible for the cost of repair or replacement (at depreciated value) of items damaged beyond normal wear and tear. Costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
- Missing items: Tenant is responsible for full replacement cost.
- Normal wear items: Month2Month replaces items that reach end-of-life through normal use.
- Appliance malfunction: If an appliance fails due to normal use or age, Month2Month is responsible for repair or replacement.
Cleaning Standards
The property must be returned in the same level of cleanliness as at move-in. Maintain the kitchen, bathrooms, floors, furniture, and linens in clean condition throughout your tenancy. If professional cleaning is required beyond what is attributable to normal wear and tear, cleaning costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
Inventory
A detailed furniture and household inventory checklist will be provided at move-in. Month2Month will document the condition of all items through photography. You will receive a copy of the move-in condition report.
11. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Your Rights Under Alaska Law
- Habitable Housing: Your rental unit must be maintained in a fit and habitable condition, including compliance with building and housing codes, plumbing, heating, electricity, and freedom from vermin. (AS §34.03.100)
- Privacy: Your landlord must give at least 24 hours' notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies) and may only enter during reasonable hours for specific lawful purposes. (AS §34.03.140)
- Return of Security Deposit: Your deposit must be returned within 14 days after move-out (or 30 days for itemized deductions), with a written itemized statement. The deposit may not exceed two months' rent. (AS §34.03.070)
- Freedom from Discrimination: You cannot be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, disability, marital status, pregnancy, or parenthood. (Alaska Human Rights Law, AS §18.80.240)
- Freedom from Retaliation: Your landlord cannot retaliate against you for exercising your legal rights, including filing complaints with government agencies. (AS §34.03.310)
- Repairs and Maintenance: You have the right to request repairs for conditions that affect health and safety, and your landlord must respond within a reasonable time. (AS §34.03.100)
- Protection from Unlawful Eviction: Your landlord must follow proper legal procedures and cannot use "self-help" eviction methods such as changing locks, removing doors, or shutting off utilities. (AS §34.03.210)
- Domestic Violence Protections: Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking have the right to terminate their lease early and request lock changes. (AS §34.03.340)
Your Responsibilities
- Pay rent in full and on time.
- Keep the unit clean and sanitary.
- Avoid damaging the property beyond normal wear and tear.
- Promptly report maintenance issues, leaks, mold, pests, or safety hazards.
- Allow reasonable access for repairs and inspections with proper notice.
- Comply with all lease terms including occupancy limits, pet policies, and use restrictions.
- Avoid creating nuisances or disturbing other residents.
- Provide proper notice before moving out and return the property in clean condition.
- Maintain adequate heat in the property during winter months to prevent frozen pipes and other cold-weather damage.
Resources
- Alaska Legal Services Corporation: www.alsc-law.org · 1-888-478-2572
- Alaska State Commission for Human Rights: humanrights.alaska.gov
- Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection: law.alaska.gov/department/civil/consumer
- Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Fair Housing Hotline: 1-800-669-9777