In these uncertain economic times, Landlords must be creative when trying to retain tenants. While this may seemingly tip the balance in favour of Tenants, having a good relationship with your Landlord cannot be understated. The key is to establish and maintain and effective line of communication so that if and when trouble arises, there are no surprises for either side. Here are a few tips that tenants should pay attention to.
1.) HVAC systems fail and roofs may leak. Call the Landlord preferably on a weekday and first thing in the morning. Consider sending an email or text. The Landlord will stand a better chance at getting in touch with his tradespeople when notified early.
2.) Properly maintain your HVAC and mechanical systems if they are your responsibilty under the lease. When it comes time for major repairs or replacements, you may have some goodwill leverage when you ask your Landlord to cover some of the cost.
3.) Pay your rent on time. If this is not possible due to cash flow issues, call your Landlord ahead of time and ask if you can make an alternate arrangement with him. Don't wait for the inevitable call.
4.) Keep the inside and outside of your unit clean.
5.) Inform your Landlord ahead of the deadline if you wish to exercise your option to extend the lease -- the same courtesy should also apply even if you have no intention of extending the lease. Allow sufficient notice so that the Landlord may market the soon to be vacant unit for lease.
6.) Notify your Landlord immediately if you notice any damage to the building or common areas. Keep and eye out for vandals. Landlords appreciate vigilant tenants who look after their asset.
7.) Always get the Landlord's prior approval before installing signage or commencing leasehold improvement work regardless of what the Lease says.
8.) Feel free to contact the Landlord if there is a problem that you reasonably feel should be fixed. Present your case in a courteous way. Most Landlords are reasonable and will hear you out. Don't ignore the problem until it gets worse.
9.) Never let a rent cheque be returned NSF. There is nothing more that will erode a Landlord's confidence in a Tenant than a bounced cheque.
10.) Allow enough time for a Landlord to get your issue resolved. Getting a problem fixed usually requires the hiring of contractors who first must provide quotations and then schedule in the work. Getting back to good communication, your Landlord should provide you with a reasonable timeline. If he does not, ask him for one.
11.) Bonus...Cooperate fully with any inspections made by the Landlord or his insurer. Comply promptly with all reasonable recommendations. Usually these are made with your safety and your customer's safety in mind as well as to minimize risk exposure for the Landlord.
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