There’s no doubt about it, being a good rental tenant is important. Not only does it ensure that you have a positive relationship with your landlord or property manager, but it also helps protect your security deposit and keep your rental unit in good condition.
Tips for Being a Good Tenant
So, what does it take to be a good rental tenant? Here are a few tips, whether you plan to stay in your place long-term, or just for a year-long lease.
Pay Your Rent on Time
This one is pretty obvious, but it’s worth repeating. Your rent is due on the first of the month, so make sure you have the funds available to cover it. If you’re going to be late, be sure to let your landlord or property manager know in advance and make payment arrangements. You may still be subject to late fees, but keeping the line of communication open is always best.
You can set up automatic payments through your banking institution to ensure you’re never late with a payment, or see if the property management company has an online system to accept payments without a hitch. Hint: Rhino has online rent collection services for tenants, and online payout services for landlords.
Keep Your Rental Home Clean and Tidy
No one wants to live in a pigsty, so do your part to keep your rental unit clean and presentable not just for yourself, but the next potential tenant who moves in. This includes regular cleaning, as well as taking care of any repair or maintenance issues promptly. Not only will maintaining cleanliness help you pass regular inspections, but it’ll make your life a lot easier if the time comes that you move out and move on.
If you run into emergency maintenance issues, be sure to communicate them with the landlord or property manager so they can be addressed immediately. Being on top of the mediation will ensure you have a habitable home and that no unnecessary damage is incurred.
Sometimes you can get a rental credit or reimbursement for certain maintenance or cleaning you do at your rental property; before expecting anything, however, be sure to ask the landlord or property manager. Maybe you can get a discount on your rent if you regularly have the carpets cleaned, or maybe it’s written into the contract that this is expected of tenants at their own cost every year.
Be Considerate of Your Neighbors
Just because you’re living in a rental unit doesn’t mean you can be disruptive or disrespectful to your neighbors. Remember to keep the noise down, and be respectful of other people’s property. Your rental home may have quiet hours, especially if it’s an apartment complex or community with Homeowner Association (HOA) guidelines.
If you live in a community with a pool, playground, or other shared amenities, treat them as if they were your own so everyone can continue to enjoy them for years to come.
Follow the Rules
Every rental property has its own set of rules and regulations that tenants are expected to follow. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these rules and follow them to avoid any problems. Whenever you’re unsure of where you can park, whether or not you can have overnight guests, or if pets are allowed, it’s best to ask the landlord or property management company outright.
Keep Your Pet Under Control
If you have a pet, be sure to offer them the training they need to be good neighbors. Not all rental properties allow for pets, so it’s especially important to not take that privilege for granted!
You can’t control your pet’s behavior at all times, but you should ensure they’re well-trained on a leash in public areas, and that you address any behavioral issues they may exhibit if they’re left home alone. For example, does your dog bark nonstop when you’re gone for the day? If so, what arrangements can be made so it’s not lonely or anxious? You may need to consider doggy daycare so your dog, and your neighbors, can have a more peaceful day.
If you have a cat in your rental, be sure you’re providing it with adequate stimulation so it doesn’t claw up carpeting or destroy blinds that you’ll be expected to replace. It’s a big responsibility to be a pet owner, and sometimes more when you’re living with your furry friend in a rental property.
By following these tips from Rhino Property Management, you can have a positive relationship with your landlord and property manager for years to come.