Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for renting an apartment with Kasa Properties?

A: Kasa Properties offers a streamlined digital application process for renters. Applicants can search available apartments online, schedule in-person or virtual tours, and complete an online application via our prospective tenant portal. Applications require income verification, or an approved co-signer/guarantor.

Can I use a co-signer or guarantor to qualify for an apartment?

A: Yes, Kasa Properties accepts guarantors and co-signers for applicants who do not meet standard income or credit criteria on their own. Co-signers must complete a separate online application, provide proof of income (typically 3x to 4x the monthly rent), and pass a background and credit screening.

How far in advance should students search for UC Berkeley off-campus housing?

A: Students should start looking for UC Berkeley off-campus rentals 3 to 6 months prior to the start of the academic semester. Kasa Properties releases fall semester listings between January and April. Securing housing early ensures access to the most popular apartments.

Does Kasa Properties offer individual room leases or joint lease agreements for student rentals?

A: Kasa Properties provides joint lease agreements for entire units (studios, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and multi-bedroom apartments). All co-tenants listed on the lease share joint financial responsibility for the total monthly rental amount.

Application, Qualification & Screening

What are the rental application requirements and credit score criteria for Kasa Properties?

A: Applicants at Kasa Properties must meet the following standard criteria:

• Income: Combined gross household income equal to at least 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent.
• Credit Score: A minimum credit score of 650 is generally required for independent approval.
• Verification: Clear government-issued photo ID, recent pay stubs or financial aid letters, and verification of rental history.
• Screening Fee: A non-refundable application screening fee per adult applicant (18+).

How long does it take for a rental application to be approved by Kasa Properties?

A: Kasa Properties processes rental applications within 24 to 48 business hours once all required documentation (proof of income, ID, rental references, and co-signer details) has been fully submitted. Missing or incomplete documentation may delay processing times.

What background checks are included in the tenant screening process?

A: Kasa Properties conducts a comprehensive tenant screening that includes a national credit check, income verification, criminal history review where permitted by local California and Berkeley municipal ordinances, and past landlord rental reference checks.

Pet Policies & Amenities

What is Kasa Properties' pet policy for rental apartments in Berkeley and Oakland?

A: Kasa Properties offers pet-friendly rental units across Berkeley, Oakland, Albany, El Cerrito, Lafayette and Concord. Dogs and cats are welcome in designated buildings with a monthly pet rent. Specific breed and weight limits vary by property building rules.

How are Emotional Support Animals (ESA) and Service Animals handled?

A: Assistance animals, including Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs), are permitted across all Kasa Properties in full compliance with federal Fair Housing laws and California state housing regulations.

Do Kasa Properties apartments include in-unit laundry, parking, and EV charging?

A: Property amenities vary by location. Many Kasa Properties locations feature updated amenities including in-unit washer/dryers or on-site laundry facilities, gated assigned parking, bicycle storage rooms, and EV charging options. Specific unit details are clearly listed on our live listings page.

Utilities, Lease Terms & Fees

Are utilities included in the rent for Kasa Properties apartments?

A: Utility inclusions depend on the specific apartment building. In most properties, tenants pay directly for PG&E (electricity and gas) and personal internet services. Water, sewer, and trash services are either included in monthly rent or billed transparently.

Are there hidden fees when renting an apartment with Kasa Properties?

A: No. Kasa Properties adheres to transparent rental pricing. Upfront move-in costs consist strictly of the security deposit, first month's rent, and applicable pet fees or parking fees if selected. All ongoing monthly charges are clearly detailed in the lease agreement prior to signing.

What lease lengths and flexible terms does Kasa Properties offer?

A: Kasa Properties offers standard 12-month lease agreements. Select properties may offer flexible terms ranging from 6-12 months or academic-year leases tailored for UC Berkeley students during specific listing windows.

Resident Portal, Rent Payments & Maintenance

How do residents pay rent online with Kasa Properties?

A: Residents pay rent online through the Kasa Properties Resident Portal accessible via web browser or mobile app. Payment methods include ACH bank transfers, debit cards, credit cards, or check payments. Rent is due on the 1st day of each month.

How do residents submit routine maintenance requests?

A: Routine maintenance requests can be submitted 24/7 online through the Kasa Resident Portal. Residents can upload photos, describe the issue, and grant permission to enter. Non-emergency maintenance requests are assigned to certified technicians and addressed within 24 to 48 hours.

How does Kasa Properties handle after-hours emergency maintenance?

A: For urgent emergencies Kasa Properties provides an after-hours emergency telephone hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Emergency calls are dispatched immediately to local on-call response teams.

Cities Served & Neighborhood Coverage

What cities and neighborhoods in the East Bay does Kasa Properties cover?

A: Kasa Properties manages and leases apartment communities across the East Bay, including:

• Berkeley: Downtown Berkeley, Southside (UC Berkeley Campus area), Northside, Elmwood, West Berkeley, and Gourmet Ghetto.
• Oakland: Adams Point, Rockridge, Temescal, Lake Merritt, and Uptown Oakland.
• Albany: Near regional transit hubs, shopping corridors, and major employers.
• El Cerrito
• Lafayette
• Concord

Are Kasa Properties apartments near public transportation and AC Transit lines?

A: Yes, the majority of Kasa Properties buildings are situated near major public transit hubs, including BART, and high-frequency AC Transit bus routes direct to UC Berkeley and San Francisco.

Move-In, Move-Out & Security Deposits

How are security deposit refunds and move-out inspections handled?

A: Security deposits are handled in strict compliance with California Civil Code. Kasa Properties offers residents a pre-move-out inspection prior to move-out to identify any required repairs or cleaning. Itemized deposit statements and remaining refunds are issued within 21 days following key turnover.



How can prospective renters schedule an apartment tour with Kasa Properties?

A: Prospective tenants can schedule an apartment tour directly through the live rentals page on the Kasa Properties website by clicking "Schedule a Tour" on any active listing. In-person guided tours, self-guided tours, and 3D virtual video tours are available.