How to Not Have Landlord Issues

Renting a house, apartment or condo is pretty much the same. One thing that rarely changes are the rules of the rental game. Every property owner or designated manager follows a strict set of guidelines. Learning how to interact and how to not have landlord issues can be a big plus during time spent as a renter. It is possible to have a long-term rental relationship with a landlord.

5 Tips for Getting Along with a Landlord

1. Know Operating Procedures

Every property owner, landlord or manager has a defined set of procedures for small and large tasks. The process of handling complaints or other issues is usually performed systematically. When renting from a new landlord, it is helpful to learn the operating procedures that are preferred. This can improve working relationships and avoid negative feelings that get stronger as time moves forward.

2. Learn Basic Landlord-Tenant Rights

Every state in the U.S. has legislation that helps to enforce certain rights for landlord and tenants. These are usually known as landlord-tenant rights. While rental agreements don’t specify each person’s rights, these are written to conform to most rental laws at the state and federal level. Taking some time to read public documents pertaining to tenant and property owner laws can help bring new insight into what is legal to do and what is not legal to do in a rental relationship.

3. Hang on to All Documents

Signing on the dotted line can happen more than once during the time a rental home is rented. The initial rental agreement is always the first piece of paperwork signed. There could be other documents that come about during a rental period. These could be acknowledgments of repairs that need completed, eviction notices or receipts of paid rent. Documenting all of this activity can go a long way if a problem is detected and could be remedied with copies of documents.

4. Send Rent Checks on Time

It is obvious that landlords, property management companies and property owners expect rent to be paid on time. The truth is that not all people pay on time regardless of what is agreed to in a rental contract. Rent checks are specifically collected on a set day each month exclusive of holidays. Ensuring that rent is paid on time or in advance can keep interactions with a landlord on a positive level during a lease agreement.

5. Understand Lease Agreements

Reading and understanding the terms in a general sense inside a lease agreement is always best. There are many topics inside of a lease agreement that is agreed to be renters and by property owners. Understanding each section individually can reduce or eliminate potential problems. The termination clause, repair exemptions and late fees for missed rent are all important pieces of information to know when reviewing and comprehending a lease agreement.