FAQ - LEASING
When should I start looking for housing?
Leasing season generally begins in mid-October and most leases are signed in February. That said, units are continually listed for rent into November, December and January. Starting early, being proactive and organized will give you the best chance to see the most units and find a good fit for your group.
How do I fill out an application?
At the top of the Amber Peak website, select the “Apply Now” button. Then select the available units you are interested in or select the general application option. Next, diligently fill you’re your groups information and an Amber Peak representative will reach out to you with next steps.
How long will it take to process my rental application?
we strive to triage and respond to all applications within 24 hours. There are, however, some periods where the volume of applications received may affect this timeline. If delays are expected an Amber Peak representatives will inform you.
How can I see a property in person?
Once a group has submitted an application, they will be sent information about how to a showing at their properties of interest. Get your application in today!
What makes an application stand out?
By the nature of being young, most of our tenants have never rented a property before. We understand this and acknowledge that most students do not have extensive credit and employment histories. Instead, we ask tenants to provide a strong reference from your past (teachers, coaches, mentors, employers, etc.). Second, we value completeness and timeliness of an application submission. A group that demonstrates organization and responsiveness throughout the leasing process will be given priority.
Where are your properties located?
We understand that students value proximity to campus. For this reason, we are selective about properties that we offer and offer only those that are close to the Queen’s campus. Check out our properties listing page for a full catalog and map view of our rentals.
What is the standard lease term?
All our properties are leased on fixed 1-year terms from May 1st – April 30th. On occasion, we may have a unit with a September 1st start date. If this is the case, a lease start date of September 1st will be expressly stated on the unit listing page. Leases starting on September 1st will be for an 8-month term (September 1st – April 30th).
What deposits need to be paid at signing of the lease?
The owner must receive your last month’s rent deposit to complete the lease agreement. Without submission of the last month’s rent deposit, a formal contract has not been made. This deposit is a prepayment of your final month’s rent and will be applied against your rent charges during your last month of the fixed term lease.
Are utilities included in the rent?
Utility responsibilities are shown on the listing page for each unit. Generally, utilities are not included in the rent. Tenants will be responsible to set up utility accounts with Utilities Kingston at the time of signing their lease.
How do I set up a utilities account?
Where applicable, confirmation that you have set up your account with Utilities Kingston is required to finalize your lease agreement. More details of this requirement will be provided during the lease signing process.
Is parking available?
Available parking can be viewed along with all units on the Amber Peak website. If you are interested in parking, please note this in your application by filling out the “Vehicles” section. An Amber Peak representative will note this and be sure to inform you of the best options.
How do I pay rent?
Our preferred form of payment or Electronic Funds Transfer.
Do I need tenant’s insurance?
Absolutely! We carry property insurance on the actual building you live in, but this insurance does not cover your personal belongings or your personal liability to others.
Can I put a lock on my bedroom door?
No. Any locks found on bedroom doors will be removed and tenants will be charged for the necessary repairs. This policy is in place to alleviate fire safety concerns stemming from egress concerns where doors are locked. Further, individual locks on bedrooms change the designation of the unit to a rooming house, a type of housing that is illegal in Kingston.