Managing the Landlord Tenant Relationship

Landlord and Tenant Relationships: Rocky Road vs Smooth Sailing

Research indicates that some of the critical qualities of a healthy relationship are trust, respect, honesty, and open communication. Whilst we often apply these qualities to our personal lives, it is as important to apply them to our professional lives. If you have invested in property and are a landlord, it is essential that you look at how these qualities can be applied and adapted to your relationship with your tenant/s.

For the purposes of this article, we will deal with new tenant relationships and set them off on the right footing. However, if you, as a landlord, already have a tenant in your property, many of these points and comments can be adapted to easily build on the existing relationship that you have.

Start as you mean to go on...

As with many relationships, the start of it can set the tone for how that relationship develops. As a landlord, you will want the tenants in your property to be honest and open with you about that property and treat it with respect. As such, it is important that this is exemplified from the start.

1. Present the property in the manner that you would like it back in

It is well known throughout the real estate industry that properties that are presented to viewers (and potential tenants) in a good, clean and well-maintained condition, are more likely to be kept and maintained in that same manner. Property that has visible signs of poor maintenance and not being looked after is not only going to attract the wrong type of tenant but is not likely to be looked after by the tenant that takes occupancy. There are many reasons for presenting property in a good manner; not only will you likely attract the type of tenant you want for the property, but you are more likely to achieve a higher rental value.

2. Clearly define roles and responsibilities

The roles and responsibilities of the landlord and tenant are set out in the rental agreement. As a landlord, you should scrutinise the rental agreement and not only ensure that what you expect from your tenant is recorded but also what you are expected to do. This would primarily relate to the property maintenance and which party is responsible for which aspect. This should be clearly laid out in the contract. Your estate agent can guide you through this and advise you on what is covered and what is not. Your agent will also work through the rental contract with the tenant and ensure that they also understand each parties' responsibilities.

3. Entry inspections

Entry inspections are invaluable in the long run. It may be very easy just to say that everything seems in order. But it is always advisable to record the condition of all aspects of the property. Look at the state of the paint work, the condition of the stove, the sanitary fitting on the bathrooms and all doors. These are just a few examples. The working order of the electric fence, gate, alarm, the state of the yard area and swimming pool (if applicable) should all be noted. It is also a good idea to take photographs. A copy of this entry inspection will be attached to the rental agreement. In the event that your tenant moves out, this inspection report can be drawn on to check for the condition of the property on departure. It will be very hard to show what defects are the responsibility of the tenant if this report does not exist. Your estate agent can assist you with this and even carry it our on your behalf with the tenant.

4. Communication / Keep a finger on the pulse

Good communication with your tenant is advisable. Keep in contact. Ultimately, your tenant is living in your asset and looking after it. You, as a landlord, are entitled to arrange a convenient time to go and inspect your property from time to time. But it must be remembered that adequate notice should be given. Remember to respect the right of privacy of your tenant so don't just pitch up on the door expecting to be let in.

Regular inspections and good communication with the tenant will ensure that if there are any maintenance issues that need to be attended to can be done before the problem gets more severe.

5. Tenants' main responsibility is rental payments.

Obviously, the tenant should look after your property and keep it in good condition. However, the main duty of the tenant is on time payment of the rental amount. If the tenants start their tenancy off and there are payment delays almost immediately, this is not a good sign. Late and part payments should not be tolerated. If you have good communication with your tenant, you will need to have an honest and frank conversation with them about this.

What happens if it all goes sour...

If you end up in a situation where there is a breakdown in the relationship, speak to your agent for sound advice. In the first instance you should have all communication with your tenant in writing. Your agent may be able to refer you to arbitration or be able to intervene if the case is not a legal matter.

At the end of the day, you, as a landlord, have an asset that needs to be looked after and maintained. Seek advice and support from your agent at any time, as they have many years of experience in managing the landlord / tenant relationship.

If you have any queries on this or would like to learn more about renting out your home with Seeff Properties, please contact the office on 393 9372.

Author: Seeff Properties Botswana