Frequently Asked Questions

What leasing options are available?

A period of 12 to 15 months

Can roommates sign separate leases?

No

Can I request a specific apartment & can an apartment be held?

Yes

Can an apartment be reserved ahead of time?

Yes

Can I choose a specific apartment before I move in?

Yes

Is there a security deposit and is any of it refundable?

$500, on approved credit. Deposit refundable upon satisfactory move-out inspection

What payments are required before move-in?

Required fees include a $55 application fee, a $250 non-refundable fee, security deposit, first month’s rent, community fee, pest control fee, amenity fee, and any applicable pet fees.

How do I apply for an apartment?

thelakeslive.prospectportal.com/fife/the-lakes/conventional/

Is there an online application process?

Yes

Where can I submit a rental application?

thelakeslive.prospectportal.com/fife/the-lakes/conventional/

What qualifications are needed to apply?

Applicants will be evaluated based on verifiable income, credit history, rental history, background check, and submission of a completed application with valid identification

What screening criteria do you use for applicants?

Entrata

When is rent due and how can it be paid?

Resident Portal, Cashiers Check, Money Order

Do you offer online rent payment options?

Yes

Are there late fees for rent payments?

$100 late fee if rent is received after the 7th of the month

Do you require a security deposit and how is it handled?

$500, subject to approved credit (OAC), may equal one month’s rent.

Which utilities are residents responsible for?

Water, sewer, trash, and electricity

Is renter's insurance required?

Yes

Can I purchase renters insurance through the property?

Yes

Do you allow subletting or short-term rentals?

Subletting is permitted with prior approval from the leasing office and payment of the reletting fee

Are housing vouchers accepted?

Yes

Do you accept Section 8 vouchers?

Yes

Do residents need to carry renters insurance?

Yes

What fees are due at move-in?

Administrative fee, security deposit, and first month’s rent

Do you charge an application or administrative fee?

$55 application fee and $250 administrative fee

What types of units are available?

The Lakes offers a variety of spacious 1- and 2-bedroom apartments in Fife, WA. These affordable apartments feature bright interiors, open layouts, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, and private patios or balconies. If you are searching for comfortable apartments near East Tacoma, WA, our community provides the perfect blend of style and value.

Are amenities secured and accessible by residents only?

Yes

What are the hours of the clubhouse?

Phase 1: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Phase 2: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

What are the hours for the fitness center?

Phase 1: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Phase 2: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

When is the gym open?

Phase 1: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Phase 2: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

What times is the pool open, and is it seasonal?

9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

When can residents use the swimming pool?

9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

When is the resident clubhouse open?

9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Can I reserve the clubhouse for private use?

Yes

What times can I access the clubhouse?

9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

How do I get my packages/do you have package lockers?

Phase 2 (9:00 AM – 10:00 PM)

Is there a secure package delivery system?

On-site Parcel Pending lockers for convenient package pick-up

Where do deliveries go?

Front door access available in Phase 1; Parcel Pending lockers available in Phase 2

Do you offer outdoor grilling areas for residents?

Phase 2

Do you offer valet trash service and/or recycling?

Recycling available on the property

Do you have any community events or resident activities?

Yes

Are social events hosted regularly?

Yes

What is the smoking policy?

Smoke-free living environment

Is smoking allowed in apartments or common areas?

No

What is the parking situation?

Numbered parking spaces and carports available

What is your policy on guests staying overnight?

All vehicles must be registered and parked in designated guest parking

Are there quiet hours or community rules I should know about?

Quiet hours are enforced daily from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM

Is there Parking Available or EV Charging Stations?

Residents at The Lakes enjoy access to reserved, covered parking to keep vehicles protected from the elements. Contact our leasing office for up-to-date information on local EV charging options. Our premium parking features help make these some of the most convenient apartments in Fife, WA.

Is The Lakes Pet Friendly?

Yes, The Lakes is proud to be a pet-friendly community in Fife, WA, and we gladly welcome your four-legged companions. Our neighborhood features great outdoor spaces for you and your pets to enjoy together. Please contact our leasing office today to learn more about our pet policies and restrictions.

What is the travel time to the closest airport or transit hub?

Approximately 35 minutes

Are you near any transportation routes? Which ones?

Route 500 Connects Federal Way, Fife, Milton, and Tacoma with multiple stops through the area

Is public transit accessible nearby?

Pierce Transit

What is the walk score or bike score?

46 out of 100 Walk Score + 51 out of 100 Bike Score

Are there sidewalks, trails, or bike paths in the area?

Interurban Trail

Are there grocery stores or shopping centers nearby?

Surprise Lake Plaza

What are the closest options for groceries and dining?

Emish Market, Safeway, Grocery Outlet

What public transportation options are available nearby?

The Lakes offers proximity to public transportation, including Pierce Transit services. Specifically, Pierce Transit Route 500 connects Federal Way, Fife, Milton, and Tacoma, providing multiple stops throughout the area for an easy commute. This convenient access makes our community ideal for anyone seeking apartments near East Tacoma, WA, or rentals near the Port of Tacoma.

What School District serves The Lakes?

The Lakes is proudly served by the Fife School District. The closest public schools for reference are Fife Elementary School, Surprise Lake Middle School, and Fife High School. Our convenient location provides an excellent home base for families seeking affordable apartments near East Tacoma, WA. Please note that school attendance boundaries may change, and residents should contact the school district to confirm assignments.

Have any recent renovations been done?

Yes

When were these apartments built? Have there been any renovations?

Phase 1: Built in 1976; Phase 2: Built in 1980

Are elevators available for resident use?

N/A

Is additional storage available inside or outside the apartment?

Select units

Do the apartments have walk-in or walk through closet options?

Select units

Is there a linen closet in the apartment?

Select units

What type of climate control is included?

Heaters

What type of flooring do the apartments have?

Combination of carpet and vinyl flooring

Are the floors carpeted, vinyl, or hardwood?

Combination of carpet and vinyl flooring

Is there a bathtub or just a shower?

Bathtub

What type of bathroom fixtures are included?

All standard bathroom fixtures provided

Are washers and dryers available? Are they in the apartment? What kind?

Whirlpool Stackable Washer and Dryer Units

Are the washers and dryers full-size, frontload, or stackable?

Stackable

Is there a separate laundry room or is it a laundry closet?

Laundry Area

What kind of appliances and features does the kitchen have?

Full Kitchen Suite Featuring Stove, Refrigerator, Dishwasher, and Garbage Disposal

Is there a disposal installed in the sink?

Yes

Do apartments have dishwashers?

Yes

Do apartments have dishwashers?

Yes

Is a dishwasher included in each apartment?

Yes

Do kitchens include full-sized appliances?

Yes