Monday, February 10, 2014

Use Landlord Forms To Protect Property

By Matt Baumberger


Owning income property can be exciting but it is important that those in charge understand the basic legalities before entering an agreement. This protects both sides, as the details should be covered from the first contact. It helps to have as many landlord forms on hand as necessary so the prospective tenant may complete them.

When an ad is placed in a newspaper or other media, the calls can be a bit much to handle. When a prescreening prospect card is used, it can help determine a strong prospect. It is also the responsibility of the landlord to establish whether smoking is allowed. A no smoking addendum may be part of a lease agreement early on or added later on. This helps to protect the property from damage.

Property owners need to know who is residing in the unit that may not have an application. If pets are allowed, it is up to the landlord to determine the conditions in a pet agreement. It should be copied and signed by both parties while tenancy is in effect.

Tenants that leave their units vacant from time to time may want to consider leasing to someone else in their absence as a way to save money. The landlord should establish whether this is acceptable early on. Using a sub lease agreement will help all three parties understand what is to be expected.

Landlords entering the property when tenants are away can be an uncomfortable issue. Although some feel it is their right to enter their property at any time this may be illegal. Presenting a notice to enter premises to the tenant may help clear up the confusion and work something out. This can also be done when the tenant presents a work order to be completed.

Another way to clear up confusion about living arrangements is to send a polite reminder in writing. A lease violation notice may be used as a warning or the next step to starting the eviction process, should a matter go unresolved. When rent is not paid on time, landlords will present a notice to pay or quit, giving the tenant the option to leave the property immediately.

Though some of these matters are not pleasant, having a paper trail is necessary. Should the matter go before a court, it helps the judge determine the steps taken to resolve a problem. Anyone who regularly uses landlord forms will find that they have better control of their property.




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