For new landlords, the idea of leaving a property to the whims of a renter may seem stressful. You never know what they might do. However, you can give them restrictions and guidelines through your lease rules.
Lease enforcement isn't easy, though. If you're a property manager, it's your job to monitor all of the properties you're tasked with. Enforcing a lease is just one part of that role.
Here are some ways that a property manager can help enforce a lease on behalf of the owner.
Review the Lease Agreement
One of your first steps as a property manager is reviewing the tenant lease and becoming familiar with it. Every lease has different terms based on the landlord and the type of property. There will also be specific items about pets and who does maintenance.
An important area to review is the tenant's and landlord's duties. The lease should state what a tenant can and can't do. It should also hold the landlord accountable for duties like repairs and pest control.
Communicate Lease Rules and Expectations
Next, the property manager should know how to communicate these rules and expectations to the tenant.
In many cases, tenants don't bother to read the fine print on their leases. As such, the property manager or landlord should find a way to brief them on their limitations.
For example, a sign saying no pets allowed lets renters know not to bring animals onto the property.
Document All Incidents
Property manager responsibilities include documenting all incidents that happen on the property. This can range from noise complaints to more serious lease violations.
The reason to document problems is in the case that legal action becomes necessary. If they need to evict someone, evidence of their various violations will speed up the process.
Familiarize Yourself With Local and State Laws
Both property owners and managers need to study both local and state laws.
For example, do you know what kind of terms are illegal to put on your lease agreement? What kind of repairs and maintenance can you spend a renter's security deposit on and when is it allowed?
Stay Flexible
A lease written months ago may not always be right as circumstances change. It's important to stay flexible in your lease enforcement for the benefit of both the landlord and their renters.
Consider your tenant's circumstances and what may come from them. If they suffer an injury or disability, it is the landlord's duty to provide reasonable accommodations.
A landlord must get their tenant's consent to make any changes to the lease terms.
Lease Enforcement Made Easy
Lease enforcement is one of the great struggles of both landlords and property managers. The key is to stay in touch with your tenants and know your limits. In a worst-case scenario, you may need to rethink whether or not the renter is the right fit.
Times Real Estate Group provides residential property management services for owners and tenants in the Chester County area. We can help with your marketing, tenant screening, and other stressful tasks.
Contact us today with any questions about our services.
