Being a landlord can be tough, especially when you get a nightmare tenant. Just take this one reported by ABC News, whose tenant trashed the place and used illegal drugs.
To avoid this, you need to do lease enforcement. Breaking the lease isn't just breaking the contract; it could be weakening your property's value in tangible ways. What are your options for rental agreement enforcement that actually work?
Today, we'll discuss lease enforcement strategies like:
- Clarifying ambiguities
- Documenting damages
- Enforcing lease violation consequences
Consider this your guide on lease enforcement property management tips in Sacramento, CA. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped to tackle even the most disobedient tenants.
Lease Enforcement Requires Clarification
The legalese in a typical lease agreement can be confusing, even for lawyers. Studies have shown they prefer plain English. As such, your tenant could be breaking the lease simply out of misunderstanding.
So, have a sit-down with them and run over any doubts. Perhaps even read through the contract together to discuss pain points like:
- Rent due date
- Late-night noise policies
- Pet policies
Simply taking the time to explain how you will collect the rent saves you a future headache. Once you've explained the lease, then you know any failure to adhere to it was willful.
Document Everything
Documentation is your best friend, from a legal perspective. Pictures and written messages all protect you from liability and legal injunctions.
So, for example, suppose you discover that your tenant has a pet in violation of the pet policy. Take a picture of that pet and any evidence it has lived in the house. Take screenshots of conversations where tenants have admitted to having a pet.
There's an extra benefit here: it shows you are serious. If tenants see that you are keeping records, they won't try to slip anything past you.
Documenting everything is a habit you should develop on general principles, anyway. Keep that information safe, as you never know when you might need it.
Enforce the Lease if Necessary
Nobody likes to be the bad guy, especially a landlord trying to avoid rocking the boat. Sadly, you will sometimes have to put your foot down for lease enforcement.
If tenants break the rules, there must be lease violation consequences. Otherwise, they'll see you as a pushover and break even more.
This isn't to say you should begin the tenant eviction process if they keep having parties past midnight. Rather, if there are consequences stipulated in the contract, bring them to bear. So if they break your sofa by accident, tell them it's coming out of the security deposit.
Work With PMI American River in Sacramento
Lease enforcement, like the law, keeps people in line and prevents expensive problems. Make extra sure you clarify your lease requirements with tenants. Document what you can, and if push comes to shove, enforce the lease.
PMI American River in Sacramento, unlike other management firms, doesn't just send an intern to talk to you. Our owner and broker work directly with you, ensuring your needs are met. Get yourself a free rental analysis and see what you can earn.
