Q: Do you accept Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)?

A: Yes. We welcome applicants using Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and other lawful sources of income. The same screening applies — credit, rental history, and income verification. For voucher holders, the income requirement applies only to your portion of the rent — the voucher amount is subtracted from the total rent before we apply the income standard. Example: if rent is $1,000 and your voucher covers $500, you only need to income-qualify on the remaining $500.

Q: What is the application fee?

A: $50 per adult applicant. Covers screening (credit, background, rental history).

Q: What is the security deposit and how is it calculated?

A: Determined by your credit score.

• 721+ = $500
• 671-720 = $750
• 581-670 = $1,000
• 580 or below = $1,000 with co-signer
• No credit = $1,000 with co-signer

A $250 hold deposit reserves your unit at approval and counts toward the total. The remainder is due at move-in. Fully refundable after move-out pending final inspection.

Q: What is the Amenity Fee and what does it cover?

A: Depends on your specific unit.

• Metro Apartments at Granite City (4078-1 Kathy Dr.): $75/month for Wi-Fi and TV
• Metro Apartments at Granite City 2 (2118 Pontoon Rd., opening late 2026): $55/month for Wi-Fi only (no TV)

Both options also include package acceptance & handling, preventative/recurring pest control, 24-hour emergency maintenance on-call, and included resident & guest parking.

Q: What is the Utility Billing Administration Fee?

A: $5.50/month. Covers processing of your share of water, sewer, and trash through our utility billing service.

Q: What utilities are included in my rent?

A: Water, sewer, and trash are included. Wi-Fi is included at all units; TV inclusion depends on your specific unit (see Amenity Fee question). Electric is the resident's responsibility.

Q: Is there a city occupancy permit fee?

A: Some cities require a one-time occupancy permit fee. Where applicable, we pass this through at the exact city cost.

Q: When is rent due and what is the late fee policy?

A: Rent is due on the 1st of each month. Late fees apply per state law.

Q: Are pets allowed?

A: Yes. Dogs and cats welcome — up to 2 pets, 40 lb max each. $350 pet fee per apartment at move-in plus $40/month per pet. All pets complete our PetScreening process.

Q: How do I pay rent?

A: Through your online resident portal. We accept e-check (free), debit card, and credit card. Auto-pay is available. We don't accept cash, paper checks, or money orders.

Q: How do I apply?

A: Apply online — find your floor plan and click Apply. The application takes about 15 minutes. Most decisions within 1-2 business days.

Q: Can I tour Metro Apartments at Granite City in person?

A: Yes. Schedule a tour through our Contact Us page below. Same-day tours are available in some cases.

Q: How long does it take to move in after I apply?

A: We can get you pre-approved in as little as 15 minutes, and we can move you in as soon as your apartment is ready — we specialize in fast move-ins.

Q: How do I submit a maintenance request?

A: Through your online resident portal — submit any time. For after-hours emergencies, use the emergency contact info on our Contact Us page below.

Q: Is renter's insurance required?

A: Yes. Renter's insurance is required for the duration of the lease. Typically $10-$20/month. Submit proof or purchase a policy through your resident portal.

Q: What are your lease terms?

A: 12-month leases are standard. Before lease end, you'll receive a renewal notice with rate options.

Q: What's the area around Metro Apartments at Granite City like?

A: Just east of St. Louis — Gateway Arch about 15 minutes away. Granite City Park District operates multiple parks and rec facilities. Schools: Granite City Community Unit School District 9. Easy I-270, I-55, and I-70 access.