Owner Policies - Flatery

Welcome to Flatery! As a property owner, these policies guide you through managing your listings, tenants, and rental operations effectively. Following these guidelines ensures compliance and a positive experience for all parties.

1. Owner Eligibility & Verification

Must be the legal owner or authorized agent of the property
Valid property ownership documents required for verification
Government-issued photo ID mandatory for registration
Property must have clear legal title without disputes
All information provided must be accurate and up-to-date
Tax compliance documentation may be required

2. Property Listing Standards

Provide accurate property details, photos, and amenities
Photos should be clear, recent, and represent actual property condition
Pricing must be competitive and reasonable for the market
Update availability status promptly to avoid confusion
Disclose all property conditions, restrictions, and issues honestly
Remove or mark properties as inactive when no longer available
Misleading information may result in listing removal or account suspension

3. Rental Agreements

Always execute a written rental agreement before possession
Agreement should include rent amount, payment terms, duration, and deposit details
Clearly define maintenance responsibilities
Include termination clauses and notice period requirements
Register the agreement as per local rent control laws (where applicable)
Both parties should retain signed copies
Use legally compliant agreement templates

4. Tenant Selection & Screening

Screen tenants fairly based on legitimate criteria
Verify identity, employment, and references
Conduct background checks where legally permitted
Do not discriminate based on religion, caste, gender, or other protected categories
Clearly communicate property rules and expectations upfront
Document tenant information and agreements properly
Maintain tenant privacy and data confidentiality

5. Rent & Payment Management

Set rent at fair market rates
Specify payment due dates clearly in the agreement
Accept payments through verifiable, traceable methods
Issue receipts for all payments received
Track payment history through Flatery's platform
Notify tenants of rent increases with adequate notice (60-90 days)
Handle security deposits as per legal requirements
Refund deposits within stipulated time after final inspection

6. Property Maintenance

Ensure property is habitable and meets safety standards
Respond to maintenance requests within reasonable timeframes
Major repairs (plumbing, electrical, structural) are owner's responsibility
Conduct periodic property inspections with advance notice
Maintain essential amenities and utilities
Keep common areas (if applicable) clean and functional
Address safety hazards immediately
Use Flatery's complaint system for tracking maintenance issues

7. Tenant Rights & Privacy

Respect tenant's right to peaceful possession
Provide advance notice (typically 24-48 hours) before property visits
Do not enter the property without tenant's permission except in emergencies
Maintain confidentiality of tenant information
Do not harass tenants for rent or other matters
Honor the lease term and do not force premature eviction
Follow legal eviction procedures if necessary

8. PG Management Guidelines

Clearly define and communicate house rules
Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in common areas
Ensure adequate facilities for all occupants
Set and enforce visitor policies
Provide proper security measures
Maintain separate rent tracking for each occupant
Address conflicts between occupants fairly
Comply with local PG licensing requirements

9. Legal Compliance

Comply with local rent control and tenancy laws
Pay applicable property taxes on time
Report rental income as per tax regulations
Obtain necessary permits/licenses for rental operations
Maintain property insurance coverage
Follow building codes and safety regulations
Provide mandatory safety equipment (fire extinguishers, smoke detectors)
Keep records of all transactions and agreements

10. Prohibited Practices

Listing properties you don't own without proper authorization
Accepting cash payments without providing receipts
Discriminating against tenants based on protected characteristics
Withholding security deposits without valid reasons
Forcing tenants to vacate without legal grounds
Entering the property without permission or notice
Misrepresenting property condition or amenities
Operating unlicensed commercial rentals
Violating tenant privacy or safety

11. Communication Best Practices

Respond to tenant inquiries promptly
Use Flatery's messaging system for documentation
Be professional and courteous in all communications
Provide clear instructions for rent payment and maintenance requests
Document all agreements and changes in writing
Keep tenants informed about property-related updates
Address complaints and concerns seriously

12. Platform Usage Guidelines

Use Flatery's dashboard to manage all property operations
Keep property information and availability updated
Utilize payment tracking and reporting features
Leverage analytics to optimize property performance
Do not circumvent the platform to avoid fees (where applicable)
Report technical issues or bugs promptly
Participate in owner feedback programs to improve the platform
Maintain account security and confidentiality

Important Note

These policies provide general guidance for property owners. Specific local laws, regulations, and your rental agreements take precedence. Flatery is a management platform and is not liable for disputes between owners and tenants. Consult legal professionals for specific situations.

Violation of these policies may result in account suspension or termination.

Last Updated: December 2025