I do not take a security deposit for the apartment--instead, I am highly selective to whom I rent. I trust that you will treat the apartment as if it were your own.
I do, however, only accept credit cards.
I prefer Visa and Mastercard but can accept American Express for an additional 2% fee.
You should feel completely comfortable paying by credit card, as both Visa and Mastercard offer full protection against fraudulent use.
After I receive your fax with your credit card information, I store it in a locked folder on my computer.
After you depart the apartment and it is in good order, I destroy your file.
The charge will come through as "Beauty as Ritual, LLC", which is my privately-held, sole-propietorship beauty marketing company. I have meticulous record-keeping and have been a small-business owner for several years. I apply every ounce of care to your information, and do not collect any personal information other than what is needed to process your rental agreement. I do NOT ask for the 3 digit code which is necessary for all phone and internet ordering. I hope this gives you additional security.
You will never be liable for normal wear and tear of the apartment--but by signing the agreement, you agree to be liable for excessive electricity and/or gas usage, loss of the keys, and direct damage to the apartment (like stealing the stereo, or punching a hole in the wall). I have been renting for a couple of years and have never had to charge anyone for damages. I hope to keep it that way.
