Whether you have been a landlord for many years or you have recently started letting out your property, at some point, you will probably come across a difficult tenant. Whether they always pay their rent late or their neighbors are constantly calling you about noise disturbances, it is important that you know how to deal with different types of tenants. Here are a few top tips to help you avoid difficult situations.

Screen Potential Tenants

If you want an easier life without tenant-related problems, you should always screen potential tenants. Landlords should always check the employment and credit history of potential tenants and obtain at least one reference. A professional background check can also be incredibly revealing too.

Recognize the Problem

Knowing exactly what you are dealing with can help you resolve the issue quickly and as painlessly as possible. There are many different ways a tenant can cause issues, and getting to the root of the problem can lead to better tenant-landlord relations.

Issues With Rent Payment

From temporary cash flow issues to sudden unemployment, there are a plethora of reasons why your tenant is late with the rent. Once you have identified the reason, you can come up with a solution. People with genuine reasons can be given other payment options. However, if the issue persists, be prepared to take legal action.

Property Damage

Property visits throughout the duration of a tenancy can help you stay on top of damages. In addition, a tenancy agreement should have been signed by both parties before a tenant moves in. This agreement should state the party responsible for fixing and paying for damages.

Subletting Without Permission

Besides checking for damage, property visits can also help you recognize signs that your tenant is subletting a room, or the entire property, without your permission. Before making accusations, always get the facts straight.

Noise Complaints

Noise complaints from neighbors can turn nasty and may end up with the police knocking on the door. Anti-social behavior can be curbed by asking your tenant to resolve their issue with their neighbor personally.

Know Your Rights

As a landlord, do your due diligence and educate yourself about landlord and tenant rights and the correct procedures to take. Some landlords may benefit from professional advice from a commercial real estate expert; Segal Commercial employs experts with in-depth knowledge in leasing contracts, agreements, and property management. They can provide you with sound advice and an expert witness for your disputes.

Stay Calm

Whatever the problem, always stay calm and collected. Becoming emotional could cause the situation to get worse. When approaching tenant issues, assess the situation without bias and come up with a solution carefully.

Keep Records of Everything

Keep a written record of everything throughout the duration of a tenancy. Take photographic evidence, keep a record of all financial transactions, and make notes of all issues. Keeping your documents in a safe place and making a note of everything that happens can help you win a dispute against your tenant, should the matter go to court.