Unfortunately, not every landlord or property management is honest, and it is sometimes difficult to figure out what you should expect from such a relationship until the point where you become a tenant. Leases and contracts are designed to protect both the owner and the tenant, but there is unfortunately still a pretty large gray area containing the intricacies and the emotions of every tenant and landlord relationship.
Beyond simply going over the lease using a fine toothed comb, there are also a number of simple precautions that can be taken in order to protect you throughout the length of your lease as well as once the lease comes to an end.
1 - Take photographs when you move in. When you view the property, take pictures of the space, the walls, the ceilings, floors, windows and doors. Make sure to narrow in on any damage or stains that are not going to be repaired before you move in. Photograph anything that is out of the ordinary. Make sure that the time setting on your camera is correct.
2 - Communicate with your landlord. Being upfront with your landlord is always best when it comes to making alterations to your property. Most owners are not going to have a problem with alterations if they add value or if they can be reverted back to the old way that things were before you move out.
3 - Keep detailed records. Make note of any communication when you are dealing with reporting problems. Keep copies of everything for yourself including notes and work orders. The larger the paper trail, the easier it will be to prove things when necessary.
4 - Know that everything can be negotiated. You will never know unless you specifically ask. Many landlords are amicable when it comes to updates and repairs in exchange for a reduction in your rent or utilities for a month. Let them know that you are competent in making repairs and they may be comfortable with you making changes.
5 - Keep things clean. Keep the place clean if the landlord plans on coming in to give the appearance of a well kept property. You always want the landlord to think that you are taking good care of the space, so make an effort when it really matters.
6 - Take photographs when you move out. Make sure that the property is cleaned as best as possible. You want to take photos again and make sure that the beginning photos and the ending photos look exactly the same. You want to make sure your landlord knows that there is no damage. This way they will know that you are not responsible for any of the damage on the property.
While there are plenty of good property owners, it is still a best practice to protect yourself using the aforementioned guidelines.
Photo Credits: umjanedoan
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