B2B Reviews explains that the U.S. is home to more than 19 million rental properties with more than 49,000,000 separate units. With this many prospective tenants across the country, it comes as no surprise that landlords need strict lease enforcement rules to help them manage properties.
Lease enforcement assists landlords when any rental agreement policies are broken. From there, landlords can issue a verbal or written warning, although the latter have a paper trail for prospective court cases.
This helpful guide discusses tenant compliance strategies to help you manage your properties on Long Island, New York.
Communicate Lease Guidelines Effectively
It's estimated that as many as 91% of consumers agree to legal services without reading them (from a survey conducted by Deloitte).
Sit with tenants and effectively outline lease conditions. Be upfront and honest so tenants feel comfortable running multiple scenarios past you.
Some things to discuss include:
- Rent collection
- Late fees
- Pet policies
- Property maintenance
- Noise restrictions
By taking a proactive approach, tenants know what's expected before signing a lease. You can also work with a trusted property management company.
Inspect Your Property Regularly
By routinely inspecting your rental properties, you can check to see that your lease is being upheld. Keep in mind that most states have restrictions on when landlords can visit a property, and popping by too often can dissuade tenants from renewing their lease.
Aim for two to three scheduled visits per lease agreement, and be sure to give your tenants at least 24 hours' notice, preferably in writing. Should you find any maintenance issues, you'll have to notify your tenants in writing of these repairs and when you'll conduct them.
When you inspect your rental property, check to see that everything is in good working order and that there aren't any visible signs of damage. Always keep documentation of what you find, should you need to pursue legal action.
Consider Using Online Portals
One of the best ways to manage your rental properties and leases is with online portals. Renters can easily access these to pay bills, submit maintenance requests, and more. You or your property manager can also use these portals to update tenants on the status of said repairs while providing balance statements for their records.
Addressing Pets
When tenants bring unapproved pets into a rental, it poses an issue for landlords. Pets can cause property damage and may become a safety liability, depending on the type and breed.
These pets may even cause issues with neighbors, especially if they have children and the pets are a restricted dog breed -- or bark all day and night.
While pet-friendly rental units can draw more tenants, it's important to have strict guidelines about what breeds are allowed and enforce them. Lease enforcement imposed by a professional property manager works to keep all tenants compliant with pet guidelines.
Let Professionals Help With Lease Enforcement
Lease enforcement is a part of any landlord's role. Unfortunately, it can be challenging, which is why you need a trusted property manager to assist you with each rental property.
PMI Lighthouse can help.
Our wide range of services includes rent collection and property maintenance, which means you can trust that your property is in good hands. To learn more, contact us today at 631.600.3616 and speak with a member of our dedicated staff.
