Have you ever had a tenant damage your property? If not, You’re one of the lucky ones.
As a property investor, you may be wondering “How can I prevent tenant property damage in the future?” And, if it happens, how do I handle tenant damage to the property?
The best way to deal with tenant damage to your investment property is to prevent it before it happens.
But how do you do that?
Screening Tenants
First, choose your tenants very carefully. This is the most important thing you can do.
Always run a full tenant credit report, criminal background check, and eviction history report on all rental applications. It is also recommended to have a signed document from their current or previous landlord about their experience with the renter to not only get a referral but also to make sure they don’t still owe them money. This way you know what you’re getting yourself into.
Charge a Security Deposit
Security deposits protect you in several ways. Most obviously, they offer a cash reserve you can use to repair tenant damage to the property.
But they also serve as an indications of an applicant’s financial abilities. If your prospective tenant can’t afford a security deposit plus the first month’s rent (and possibly the last), they aren’t financially secure and could cause financial problems for you in the future.
Charge for Pets
The same logic applies to pet deposits. No matter how well trained a pet is, 9 times out of 1o there will be some sort of damage. Wether it is damaged carpet from animals dragging in mud, nail marks in wood floor or even just the strong smell of an animal residing there. These are things that will need to be fixed between tenets and could become costly to you.
Be Responsive to Property Repairs
When a renter calls you about a problem — a drippy faucet, a hole in a screen, or worse, a roof leak, make sure they know it is your highest priority and that you don’t want it to get worse for them. When they hear this each time they contact you, it encourages them to be better tenants because you are kind and taking care of their needs.
Document When a Tenant Damages Property
Make sure you keep “before” pictures (such as the ones you use for advertising rental properties) and then take “after” pictures of the damage. This way you will have proof for the tenant at the end of their lease term in the event damage does occur resulting in charges.
Wow Thats A Lot!
This may sound like a lot of work that you as a property owner may just not have time for! We are here to help! Everything listed above we will handle for you! From maintenance issues to screening tenants and more! Check out our services here and call us today!
At All County Property Management Group, we help not only renters find their next home but also property investors looking for an experienced property management company to take over the hard work of property management. We offer up-to-date listings to suit a variety of needs and budgets. In addition, our dedicated leasing staff works with you every step of the way so you can feel confident in your home choice. Plus our team handles all property management needs from maintenance, leasing documents, marketing and more! For more information or to see our available listings in your area, check us out today.