4 Tips for Landlords to Avoid Tenant Disputes

Renting the property is a convenient way of earning some extra cash. It can be a steady source of income but being a landlord comes with responsibilities and it is not as simple and easy people think it is. There is a wide range of problems that renting a property can bring.

Dealing with the tenants properly is an important and essential trait of a successful landlord. Landlords need to do their best to avoid disputes and if any arise then dealing with them without making too much fuss.

Here are a few tips that landlords can use to avoid conflict and build a good relationship with the tenants. 

1- An Updated Landlord Inventory:

The common dispute that can arise between a tenant and a landlord is about the property damage and items that go missing during the tenancy period. To avoid the conflict the landlords need to invest in landlord certificate as they document the condition and all the items of the property before the tenancy begins. You can use the document to assess the property and identify missing items. The documentation does not leave anything to chance as you have evidence to support your claim.

Without the documents, you will have no proof to support your argument and you will get into a dispute. You will find it hard to reach any decision if it’s just your word against the tenants’ word.

2- Clear Terms in Lease Agreement:

The lease agreement is an important document. It is crucial for avoiding future conflict as it puts all the lease terms on paper. Make sure that the terms on the lease are written in simple and easy languages they are easy to comprehend.

Verbal agreements are not effective in dealing with disputes as you do not have any evidence to back up the argument. Make sure that both parties agree on each and every statement written on the agreement. The written word is solid evidence that will make sure that there is no breaching of the agreement.

3- Smart and Right Advertisement:

If you want to avoid future disputes you need to make sure that you take the first steps in the right direction. The first step to starting a dispute-free tenancy is to advertise the property in the right way. Nowadays there are multiple channels available that can help with the advertisement.

Make sure that you share clear pictures of the property so you can attract suitable tenants. It will save you the trouble of going through the list of the tenants that are not the best choice. The right advertisement will narrow down the options and make better choices.

4- Have a Screening System in Place:

Selecting the right tenant is important for avoiding conflict. If you choose the tenant that is not eligible to pay the rent or do not have any references from previous landlords then you will have trouble with them in future. Make sure that you check and verify the credentials. Meet the tenants in person as it will allow you to get a better idea of the tenants and if they are the right choice or not.