GETTING STARTED—MOVE IN BASICS

What is the “need to know” info for being a new SF House member?

Refer to the items below and carefully read (and re-read) the House Rules and Guidelines here.

How do I access the building and my room?
You’ll use your app or keycard to enter the front gate, your room, and some common areas. This information will be shared with you before move-in.

What is my mailing address? Where do I receive mail and packages?

Your full mailing address is: 229 Ellis Street, [Your Room #], San Francisco, CA 94102
Each room has its own mailbox in the mail area next to the gym. Packages are delivered to the package locker system on the first floor next to the elevator. You’ll register at move-in and receive a notification when a package arrives. Oversized packages may be left in the elevator lobby.

How do guests or delivery drivers get access to inside of the building?

Guests must be met at the door. Most delivery drivers have a separate code to enter—if they don’t, meet them at the front door. If your schedule doesn’t permit meeting them, you should reschedule the delivery or see if another member is willing to assist.

What’s the WiFi network and password?
The network name and password will be provided to you when you move-in. Make sure to note the password for future reference.

How do I submit maintenance requests?
Use the resident portal app to submit maintenance requests. For urgent issues (e.g., flooding or major outage), submit through the app immediately after calling 911 if life-threatening.

What happens if I get locked out or lose my access card?
Your phone is the primary way to access your room. If your phone dies, your access card serves as a backup—keep it in your wallet or bag. If you lose your card, we’ll cancel the old one and issue a new one. If you are locked out of the building, and you cannot reach any other members to help you, contact the resident manager or emergency contact.

Is there video monitoring in the Building?

Yes, entries to the building and shared spaces may have video footage, and members consent to being filmed. Footage may be used to monitor theft or smoking violations and can serve as evidence for lease defaults.

LEASING + ROOM

Can I bring my TV? Can I mount my TV to the wall?
You can bring a TV, but wall-mounting is prohibited.

Can I extend my stay or go month-to-month after my lease ends?
Yes, you can go month-to-month after your lease ends, but your monthly rent is likely to increase compared to a longer fixed term.

After I move in, can I transfer to a different room?
Yes. Transfers are subject to availability, fees, deposit adjustment, and account status. A transfer fee applies.

Can I sublet my room?
Subletting is not permitted.

PAYMENTS

I have a question related to payments (or other items) that are configured in the online portal. How do I get answers?

Go here (AppFolio’s Online Portal question-answer resources). If you still need help, reach out through the online portal.

How much money is due at lease signing?
One month’s rent and utilities plus a security deposit (equal to one month’s rent). If you move in on a date other than the first of the month, you will pay prorated rent for that first month in your second month.

How do I pay rent?
Rent payments are made through your resident portal, which offers multiple payment options.

When is rent due? When is it late? What are the penalties and impacts of a late rent payment?
Rent is due on the 1st of the month. A 5.0% late fee is applied on the 5th of the month. Eviction proceedings begin on the 5th in the event of non-payment. Late rent impacts credit, incurs costs, and may affect renewal eligibility.

What if my payment isn’t successful due to insufficient funds or a faulty payment method?
A $25 fee applies to the first failed payment and $35 for each subsequent one. Late fees still apply.

Is the security deposit refundable?
Yes. Deductions are made for cleaning, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or unpaid balances. Deposits are returned within 21 days.

What happens to my deposit if there are damages?
You’ll receive an itemized list of deductions. Any remaining deposit balance will be returned within 21 days. If damage exceeds the deposit, you may owe the difference.

DAILY LIFE

What if something breaks or goes missing?
Submit a maintenance request through the app so we can repair or replace it. Our team will handle items that need repair—don’t attempt to fix it yourself.

What should I do if someone breaks House Rules or isn’t adhering to House Guidelines?
First, try to address the issue directly and respectfully with the other member. If that’s not possible or feels unsafe, contact SF House staff through your preferred communication channel and we’ll assist in resolving it promptly.

Which kitchen do I use?

We have six chef-inspired kitchens that are private to each floor. Members are required to use the kitchen on the same floor as their room.

Where do I store my dry goods?

You will have a dedicated pantry storage area in your shared kitchen on your floor.

Which refrigerator do I store my perishables in?

You’ll have dedicated cold storage space in one of the refrigerators on your floor.

Are all the appliances communal? 

Generally, yes - appliances are communal unless specifically labeled. SF House provides the stove/oven, dishwasher, refrigerator(s), microwave, and coffee maker in each kitchen. Members may add a small countertop appliance with clear labeling and instructions on how to use it.

What happens if I put a countertop appliance in the kitchen?

If you put it in the shared kitchen, you should expect other members on your floor to use it. Please share instructions on how to use it if you're concerned about misuse.

Where do I dispose of trash?

All trash should be taken down to the main trash room when full—including bathroom trash. Your personal trash should never go in the common area bins, as they're meant for shared use and fill up quickly.

Always break down boxes before tossing them, and never leave trash in hallways, common areas, or outside your door. Housekeeping removes trash from common areas like kitchens twice a week, but you're expected to do your part to keep all spaces clean and tidy.

Where do I store my bicycle or scooter?

Bicycles must be kept in the bike storage room in the basement. Bikes and scooters should not be in hallways, stairwells, or shared spaces. Bikes left in prohibited areas may be removed and disposed.

MOVING OUT 

How do I move out?
If moving out at the end of your lease, give 30 days' written notice. Remove all personal belongings, clean your room, return keys, and complete a walkthrough if desired. Deposit will be processed within 21 days.

What if I want to move out early?
You may terminate your lease with 30 days’ notice and payment of a termination fee equal to 2 months’ rent plus any concessions you received.

What happens if I leave things behind?
Items not originally in your room will be discarded. Related disposal fees will be deducted from your security deposit.

Still have unanswered questions?

See additional FAQs at the bottom of the home page.