The 250 Questions Every Landlord Should Ask by George Sheldon

Author:George Sheldon
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: ebook, book
Publisher: Adams Business An imprint of Adams Media, Inc.
Published: 2009-07-15T00:00:00+00:00

#136. Is it wise to allow tenants to paint the rental unit?

There is no set rule about painting. If the rental unit needs painting due to ordinary wear and tear, the responsibility is the landlord’s. If the need for painting is the fault of the tenant because of damage, then the tenant is responsible.

The condition of the paint can make a property “habitable” or “inhabitable.” When the paint chips or peels, the landlord must correct the condition.

When a tenant wants to paint to make the rental unit more attractive, you might consider buying the paint (probably no more than $30 for a small apartment) if the tenant will do the painting. Sometimes, landlords purchase partial cans of paint at yard or garage sales for touch-up or small rooms.

When you allow a tenant to do the painting, you are taking a risk in assuming that they know how to paint properly. Will your tenant remove the electrical outlet covers and switch plates? Sloppy painting can become a problem.

You should always maintain control over the paint color. If you don’t, you could end up with wall colors that will require much repainting when your tenant leaves.

#137. Does it make sense to expect or require a tenant to perform maintenance work, like grass cutting and snow removal, as part of the rental agreement?

Sometimes, the best way to make sure exterior maintenance is completed is for the landlord to do the work. However, many successful landlords do require their tenants to do certain maintenance work around the premises.

It is always best to include the responsibilities and duties of the tenant in the lease agreement. It should be clearly indicated and spelled out in unambiguous terms. For example: “Tenant agrees to mow the rear yard weekly (or more often) so as to maintain the grass no more than two inches in height.”

In some locales, local laws or ordinances require snow removal from sidewalks. If the tenant fails to do this work, the property owner is likely to be held responsible by the local authorities. Be sure that if you delegate this type of work to a tenant that the work is done on time and as agreed. You must comply with local laws, and if the tenant does not do the work as required, you may be held legally responsible.

#138. What is the best way to handle appliance problems?

Most residential rental units include the use of several appliances. It is common that a stove be included with a rental. Many units include the use of a refrigerator, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and garbage disposal.

The more appliances in the rental unit, the more they need to be maintained and kept working.

In today’s world, many appliances are disposable. Rather than pay for costly repairs, the appliance is simply replaced by a new model. Landlords usually purchase less expensive models for their rental units, and some purchase used appliances. Scratched and dented appliances (usually discounted because of the damage) are often attractive purchases to the landlord.

Some repairs are easy for anyone to fix.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.