Zereba SafeLease

Replace traditional cash deposits with an affordable monthly fee. Landlords get guaranteed protection while you maintain responsibility for your rental.

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How SafeLease Works

No Large Deposit

Pay a small monthly fee instead of a full security deposit upfront, keeping more cash in your pocket.

Faster Move-In

Get approved and move in quickly without waiting to save a full security deposit amount.

Landlord Protection

Your landlord receives a Zereba-backed guarantee while you remain responsible for the property.

Important Notice

SafeLease is a surety bond, not insurance. You remain fully responsible for any damages or unpaid rent. The bond guarantees payment to your landlord if you don't fulfill your obligations, but you must reimburse Zereba for any claims paid.

The SafeLease Process

1

Apply for SafeLease

When applying for your rental, select SafeLease instead of a traditional deposit. Complete our simple application process.

2

Get Approved

Once approved, pay your first month's premium plus rent.

3

Move In & Document

Complete the move-in inspection using our digital tools to document the property's condition.

4

Monthly Premium

Continue paying your small monthly premium while you lease the property.

5

Move Out & Settle

At move-out, either settle any damages directly with your landlord or through the bond process if needed.

Your Responsibilities

With SafeLease, you maintain full responsibility for the property

Property Condition

You're responsible for maintaining the property and returning it in the same condition.

Rent Payments

You must pay rent on time as outlined in your lease agreement.

Damage Costs

You're responsible for the full cost of any damages or repairs.

Reimbursement

If Zereba pays a claim to your landlord, you must reimburse Zereba for the full amount.

Credit Impact Notice

Failure to reimburse Zereba for any claims paid may result in negative credit reporting, impact your eligibility to use SafeLease or rent properties in the future, and may also lead to legal action being taken to recover the owed amount.

SafeLease vs Traditional Deposit

Feature	SafeLease Bond	Traditional Deposit
Upfront Cost	Affordable monthly premium	High upfront cost (1–2 months' rent)
Move-In Speed	Instant approval, move in faster	Wait to save entire deposit
Landlord Protection	Backed by Zereba's guarantee	Landlord-held deposit
Tenant Responsibility	Responsible only for actual damages	Full financial responsibility
Damage Resolution	Pay only what you owe, no more	Deducted from deposit, often disputed
End of Lease	No refund, but keep your cash flow	Possible refund (if no issues)
Cash Flow Flexibility	Keep your savings intact	Ties up large amounts of cash
Transparency & Support	Clear terms, tenant support included	Often unclear and landlord-dependent

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Frequently Asked Questions

No, SafeLease is a surety bond, not insurance. With insurance, the insurance company assumes the risk. With our surety bond, you remain fully responsible for any damages or unpaid rent. The bond simply guarantees payment to your landlord if you don't fulfill your obligations, but you must reimburse Zereba for any claims paid.

You have two options: 1) Pay for the damages directly with your landlord, or 2) If you can't pay, your landlord can file a claim with Zereba. If the claim is approved, Zereba will pay your landlord, but you will be required to reimburse Zereba for the full amount, plus any applicable fees.

No, the monthly premium must be paid throughout your lease term. Failure to pay may result in cancellation of your bond, which could put you in violation of your lease agreement. Your landlord may then require a traditional security deposit or take other actions permitted by your lease.

You must reimburse Zereba for any claims paid on your behalf. If you can't pay in full immediately, we may offer a payment plan. However, failure to repay may result in negative credit reporting, collections activity, and could impact your ability to rent in the future or use SafeLease again.

While many landlords accept SafeLease, it's ultimately up to each property owner. We recommend discussing this option with your prospective landlord during the application process. Zereba provides all necessary documentation to help landlords understand the protection our bond offers.