When managing a rental property, it’s vital to recognize the importance of its exterior appearance. The property’s exterior greatly impacts its value and curb appeal. It’s necessary to properly maintain the exterior, considering tenants’ contribution to upholding its aesthetics.
Keep in mind that disagreements over the rental property’s appearance can result in issues. Certain tenants may want not only to upkeep the yard but also to modify or add to the exterior of the rental home. As DIY home improvement trends grow, more tenants are trying to make changes to the property, with or without landlord approval.
Common types of unauthorized tenant changes
For example, your tenant might feel that a patio umbrella isn’t enough and want to replace it with a pergola. While it might appear straightforward to allow them to assemble it in the yard, this could result in permit issues, property damage, and possible injuries. If someone were to get injured during the process, you could face a serious legal issue on top of everything else.
Damaged sprinklers or gas lines, faulty siding, and subpar handiwork can lead to costly repairs and create a dangerous backyard environment, posing significant financial risks for the property owner.
Similar concerns exist for other common home improvements, such as painting, replacing the garage door, or adding a deck or porch. Personal design choices and/or poor-quality renovations can decrease property value, making it harder to rent out. Letting tenants undertake home improvement projects on their own is not a wise strategy.
Prevent tenants from modifying rental property
The most prudent strategy is to stop home “improvement” projects before they get underway. Include clear terms in the lease stating that tenants are not permitted to make permanent changes to your rental property.
Conducting regular inspections is key to ensuring tenants haven’t made unauthorized alterations to the property. This proactive method can help prevent safety issues, lease violations, or property damage, providing you with more control over your property.
That’s when you should reach out to Real Property Management Southeast Idaho. We accomplish regular property evaluations in Idaho Falls and nearby to prevent unauthorized tenant improvements in their tracks. If you want to understand more, please contact us online or by phone at 208-522-2400.
Originally Published on Mar 22, 2019
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