An ideal tenant does not exist! We all know finding a right tenant could be a daunting task. Albeit if you've shortlisted one, don't sit back and relax! Its just the beginning. Before a tenant moves in, a landlord has several things-to-do on his check-list. Renting a property could be a tough row to hoe, if you miss out on certain mandate steps. If this is your first time, don't fret. You can minimize ambiguity by adding these 8 to-do things in your list before tenants move in:
1. Conduct property inspection:
Property inspection will help you identify the potential safety hazards or damages. It include pipe bursts, blocked gutters or downspouts, open wires, broken switch, grass cut, lawn mowing, snow removal, etc. You can book a contractor to repair all the damages to the property. Make sure to address safety hazards like mold removal, cracked ceiling, etc.
2. Cleanup that dirt:
A tenant cannot leave the property in good condition. There might be few camouflaged damages which you are certainly not aware of. Nevertheless, a thorough cleanup of entire property will help you recognize the damages. Moreover, you must clean off the debris, mold, bathtubs, and toilets before a new tenant settle in!
3. Check for utilities:
Ensure the working condition of all the utilities including plumbing, heating and electrical appliances are proper. As a landlord, it is your responsibility to provide all the necessities to your tenants for better quality of life. Make sure that their are no clogged or leaky pipes and the lights are operating properly.
4. Prepare a legal lease agreement and get it signed from the tenants:
Include all the necessary pointers in the lease agreement. Discuss it with the tenants and explain each and every policy one-by-one. Get it signed from them after solving any query or questions.
5. Install new locks:
Secure the property by installing new locks or changing the lock box. It will ensure that no previous tenants have access to the property. Nevertheless, property securing is a crucial step towards safeguarding your property from theft or vandalism.
6. Provide contact information:
Provide detailed contact information so that a tenant could reach you in-case of any emergency. They can communicate with you about any question or complaint regarding the property.
7. Collect security deposit and first month's rent:
If a tenant fail to pay first month's rent on time, there are high chances that the rental payments will be late in the following months. Therefore, collect first month rent and security deposit prior to tenant's scheduled move-in.
8. Check for any specific requests or conditions:
Tenants could keep special requests or conditions before moving in. Go through the conditions and decide whether it is appropriate to meet the requirements or not. Requests may include changing the wallpaper, installing washer or dryer, lawn cut, etc. If you happen to accept all the conditions, make sure to mention the clause in the lease agreement.
These steps will reduce misunderstandings between landlords and tenants. Make sure to strike off the to-do things in your list before your tenants move-in!