North Carolina Mandatory Rental Disclosures

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 N.C.G.S. §42-51, security deposits for residential rental properties are limited as follows:

• Week-to-week tenancy: Maximum of two weeks' rent.
• Month-to-month tenancy: Maximum of one and one-half months' rent.
• Tenancy longer than month-to-month: Maximum of two months' rent.

Pet deposits are limited to a reasonable nonrefundable fee, if applicable.

Trust Account Requirement

Month2Month holds all security deposits in a North Carolina trust account in compliance with state law. The name and address of the financial institution where the deposit is held will be provided to the tenant within 30 days of the beginning of the lease term, or upon request.

Permitted Uses

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-51, the security deposit may be applied to:

• Nonpayment of rent.
• Damage to the premises (beyond normal wear and tear).
• Nonfulfillment of the rental period (early termination).
• Unpaid bills that become a lien against the property due to the tenant's occupancy.
• Costs of re-renting the premises after a breach by the tenant.
• Costs of removal and storage of tenant's property after a summary ejectment proceeding.
• Court costs in connection with terminating the tenancy.

Return of Deposit

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-52, within 30 days after the termination of the tenancy and the tenant's vacating the premises, Month2Month will either:

• Return the full security deposit; or
• Provide an itemized accounting of any deductions and return the remaining balance.

If the extent of the landlord's claim against the deposit cannot be determined within 30 days, the landlord must provide an interim accounting within the 30-day period and a final accounting within 60 days after the tenancy ends.

Forwarding Address

The deposit will be mailed or delivered to the tenant's last known address. You should provide Month2Month with a forwarding address at or after move-out to ensure timely receipt.

Disputes

If you dispute any deduction from your security deposit, contact Month2Month in writing within 7 days. If the dispute cannot be resolved, you may file a claim in small claims court in the county where the property is located.

3. Landlord Identity and Address Disclosure

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-44.1 and §42-44.2, the landlord or the landlord's agent must disclose to the tenant in the lease agreement or in a separate written document:

• The name and address of the landlord or the landlord's authorized agent.
• The name and address of a person authorized to receive service of process and other notices and demands on behalf of the landlord.
• The name and address of the person or entity responsible for managing the premises.

Your lease agreement contains the specific owner information, property manager contact information, emergency maintenance contact, and the person authorized to receive service of process 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

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-44, the landlord must provide operable smoke alarms in the rental property, either battery-operated or electrical. Smoke alarms must be installed in accordance with the standards of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and applicable building codes.

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-44(a1), the landlord must also install one or more carbon monoxide alarms per rental unit in any dwelling unit that has a fossil-fuel-burning heater, appliance, or fireplace, or that has an attached garage.

All Month2Month rental properties are equipped with operable smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in compliance with North Carolina law.

Installation Locations

Smoke alarms are installed in each sleeping room, outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on every level of the dwelling. Carbon monoxide detectors are installed as required near sleeping areas in properties with fuel-burning appliances 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.
• Replace batteries as needed. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-44(b), the tenant is responsible for replacing the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms as needed during the tenancy, unless the alarm is a tamper-resistant, 10-year lithium battery alarm.
• Report immediately if any device is chirping, not functioning, or missing.
• Notify in writing: Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-44(b1), the tenant must notify the landlord in writing of any malfunction of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm. The landlord must repair or replace the device within 15 days of receiving written notification.
• 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 repairing or replacing malfunctioning alarms within 15 days of receiving written notice from the tenant.

5. Flooding and Flood Zone Disclosure

While North Carolina does not have a specific state statute requiring landlords to disclose flooding history to residential tenants, Month2Month discloses the following as a best practice and in the interest of tenant safety. North Carolina is susceptible to flooding from hurricanes, tropical storms, and heavy rainfall events.

If this property is located in a FEMA-designated special flood hazard area, or if the property has experienced flooding or flood-related damage, this information will be disclosed in your lease agreement or a property-specific addendum.

Hurricane and Flood Preparedness

• Know your evacuation zone and evacuation routes. Visit www.ncdps.gov for emergency management information.
• Sign up for emergency alerts through your county emergency management agency and the ReadyNC app.
• Maintain an emergency supply kit with water, food, medications, flashlights, and important documents.
• If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not wait for conditions to worsen.
• Renter's insurance may or may not cover flood damage to personal property — check your policy carefully.

For detailed flood zone information, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at https://msc.fema.gov/portal or the NC Flood Risk Information System at https://fris.nc.gov/fris.

6. Mineral, Oil, and Gas Rights Disclosure

In North Carolina, mineral rights (including the rights to oil, gas, and other subsurface minerals) can be owned separately from the surface rights to a property. When mineral rights have been severed, the mineral rights owner may have the legal right to access the surface of the property for the purpose of exploring, drilling, or mining for minerals.

If the mineral rights for your rental property have been severed from the surface rights, this will be disclosed in your lease agreement or a property-specific addendum. The disclosure will include, to the extent known:

• Whether the mineral rights have been severed from the surface rights.
• The identity of the mineral rights owner, if known.
• Any known current or planned mineral exploration or extraction activities on or near the property.

If you have questions about mineral rights associated with the property, you may search the county register of deeds records or consult with an attorney.

7. Mold Disclosure

While North Carolina does not have a specific statute requiring mold disclosure, Month2Month discloses the following information as a best practice to protect tenant health and safety.

Mold can cause health problems, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. You have a right to know about mold in your rental unit and how to prevent it.

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

1. Ventilate your home: Open windows regularly, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and ensure air circulation. North Carolina's humid climate, particularly in the eastern and Piedmont regions, makes ventilation particularly important.
2. Control moisture: Wipe up spills and leaks immediately, do not let water accumulate, and report any leaks or water damage to Month2Month immediately.
3. Use heating and air conditioning: Maintain reasonable temperatures and use climate control systems to reduce humidity. Keep indoor humidity below 60%.
4. Clean regularly: Regular cleaning prevents mold from establishing itself.
5. Report problems immediately: If you see mold, smell musty odors, or notice water damage, report it to Month2Month right away.

Under North Carolina's implied warranty of habitability (N.C.G.S. §42-42), the landlord must maintain the rental property in a fit and habitable condition. If mold develops due to landlord negligence (such as failure to repair leaks), the landlord is responsible for remediation.

8. Bed Bug Disclosure

While North Carolina does not have a specific statute mandating bed bug disclosure, Month2Month provides the following information as a best practice.

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.

9. Domestic Violence Protections

Right to Terminate Lease Early

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-42.2, 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 of termination at least 30 days before the end of the rental period, along with one of the following forms of documentation:

• A copy of a valid protective order issued under N.C.G.S. Chapter 50B (Domestic Violence) or Chapter 50C (Civil No-Contact Orders).
• A copy of a criminal complaint alleging that the tenant or a member of the tenant's household is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

The tenant is responsible for rent through the end of the month following the month in which the notice of termination was given, or through the end of the rental period, whichever comes first. The tenant is not liable for rent for any period following the termination date or for any early termination fee.

Right to Request Lock Changes

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-42.3, a tenant who is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking may request that the landlord change the locks to the dwelling unit. The tenant must provide a copy of a valid protective order or criminal complaint. The landlord must change the locks within 48 hours of receiving the request and documentation, or give the tenant permission to change the locks at the tenant's expense.

Protection from Eviction

A landlord may not terminate a tenancy, refuse to renew a rental agreement, or retaliate against a tenant because the tenant has been a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, or because the tenant has exercised rights under N.C.G.S. §42-42.2 or §42-42.3.

Confidentiality

Month2Month will maintain the confidentiality of any information provided by a tenant who is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. 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)
• NC Coalition Against Domestic Violence: www.nccadv.org
• NC Legal Aid: www.legalaidnc.org
• NC Victim Assistance Network: 1-800-348-5068
• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673

10. Military Personnel Early Lease Termination

North Carolina Military Protections

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-45.2, a member of the U.S. Armed Forces who receives permanent change of station (PCS) orders, deployment orders for a period of not less than 90 days, or temporary duty orders for a period of not less than 90 days may terminate a residential rental agreement by providing:

• Written notice of termination to the landlord at least 30 days before the next rent due date.
• A copy of the official military orders or a written verification signed by the service member's commanding officer.

The tenant is liable for rent only through the termination date and is not liable for any early termination fee or penalty.

Federal Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)

Under the federal SCRA (50 U.S.C. §3955), a service member who enters active duty after executing a lease, or who receives PCS or deployment orders, may terminate a residential lease by providing:

• Written notice of termination to the landlord.
• A copy of the military orders or written verification from the commanding officer.

The lease terminates 30 days after the next rent payment date following proper notice. The SCRA also provides protections against default judgments, stays of proceedings, and interest rate caps on pre-service obligations for active-duty service members.

If you are a member of the military and need to exercise early termination rights, please contact Month2Month as soon as possible to discuss the process.

11. HOA and Community Rules

If your rental property is located within a homeowners' association (HOA), planned community, or condominium association, you may be subject to additional rules and regulations established by the community's governing documents, including the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), bylaws, and community rules.

Tenant Obligations

As a tenant, you are required to comply with all applicable HOA or community association rules, which may include:

• Vehicle parking restrictions and towing policies.
• Noise restrictions and quiet hours.
• Restrictions on exterior modifications, decorations, and signage.
• Pet restrictions (breed, size, number).
• Use of common areas (pools, fitness centers, clubhouses, trails).
• Trash and recycling procedures.
• Landscaping and yard maintenance requirements.
• Guest and visitor policies.
• Short-term rental restrictions.

If the property is subject to HOA or community rules, a copy of the applicable rules will be provided to you at or before move-in. Violations of HOA rules may result in fines assessed against the property owner, which may be passed through to the tenant if the violation was caused by the tenant's conduct. Repeated violations may constitute a material breach of your lease agreement.

12. 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

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.

13. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Your Rights

1. Habitable Housing: Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-42, the landlord must maintain the rental property in a fit and habitable condition, including complying with applicable building and housing codes, making all repairs necessary to keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition, keeping common areas in a safe condition, maintaining electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems in good and safe working order, and providing operable smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
2. Privacy: While North Carolina does not have a specific statute prescribing advance notice requirements for landlord entry, Month2Month will provide at least 24 hours' notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies) as a matter of policy and as specified in your lease agreement.
3. Return of Security Deposit: Your deposit must be held in a trust account and returned within 30 days after move-out, with an itemized statement of any deductions. (N.C.G.S. §§42-50 through 42-56)
4. Freedom from Discrimination: You cannot be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, or any other protected class under the federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. §3604) and the North Carolina State Fair Housing Act (N.C.G.S. §41A-1 et seq.).
5. Freedom from Retaliation: Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-37.1, the landlord may not retaliate against you by increasing rent, decreasing services, or bringing or threatening to bring an action for summary ejectment because you have complained to a government agency about code violations, complained to the landlord about needed repairs, or exercised any right or remedy under the law.
6. Repairs and Maintenance: If the landlord fails to maintain the property in a fit and habitable condition, you may give written notice to the landlord specifying the defects. If the landlord fails to repair the defect within a reasonable time, you may have remedies available under N.C.G.S. §42-44, including rent abatement as determined by a court.
7. Protection from Unlawful Eviction: The landlord must follow proper legal procedures and cannot use "self-help" eviction methods such as changing locks, shutting off utilities, or removing your belongings. (N.C.G.S. §42-25.6)
8. Domestic Violence Protections: You may terminate your lease early with proper documentation if you are a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. (N.C.G.S. §42-42.2)
9. Military Early Termination: You may terminate your lease early with proper orders if you are a military service member. (N.C.G.S. §42-45.2)
10. Reasonable Accommodations: Under the federal Fair Housing Act, tenants with disabilities have the right to request reasonable accommodations and reasonable modifications to enable equal enjoyment of the rental property.

Your Responsibilities

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §42-43, the tenant shall:

1. Pay rent in full and on time.
2. Keep the unit clean and sanitary.
3. Dispose of all ashes, garbage, rubbish, and other waste in a clean and safe manner.
4. Keep all plumbing fixtures in the dwelling unit as clean as their condition permits.
5. Not deliberately or negligently destroy, deface, damage, or remove any part of the premises.
6. Comply with all obligations imposed on tenants by applicable building and housing codes.
7. Be responsible for all damage, defacement, or removal of any property inside a dwelling unit in the tenant's exclusive control, unless the damage was due to ordinary wear and tear, acts of the landlord or the landlord's agent, or acts of God.
8. Notify the landlord in writing of any conditions in need of repair.
9. Allow reasonable access for repairs and inspections with proper notice.
10. Comply with all lease terms including occupancy limits, pet policies, and use restrictions.

North Carolina Eviction Process

North Carolina law requires the landlord to follow specific legal procedures to evict a tenant. A landlord may not engage in "self-help" evictions. The process includes:

1. Written notice: For nonpayment of rent, the landlord must demand payment and give the tenant 10 days to pay before filing for summary ejectment. For lease violations, the landlord must provide notice and a reasonable opportunity to cure, if applicable.
2. Filing a complaint in summary ejectment in the small claims division of the district court of the county where the property is located.
3. Service of the summons and complaint on the tenant.
4. A court hearing where both parties may present their case. The tenant has the right to appeal to district court for a trial de novo within 10 days.
5. A writ of possession issued by the court if the landlord prevails and no appeal is filed.

Resources

• North Carolina Justice Center: www.ncjustice.org
• Legal Aid of North Carolina: www.legalaidnc.org
• NC Bar Association Lawyer Referral: www.ncbar.org
• Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Fair Housing Hotline (HUD): 1-800-669-9777