064- How to be a great tenant

This is part 2 of a series about property management. Part 1 can be found HERE. I put this together to help young or new renters become good tenants (like Adulting 101), but I think it can be helpful for everyone. I've also included a download link at the bottom so you can save it, if you'd like.

RENTAL CONTRACT TIPS

1. Read and understand your rental contract or lease, and any addenda that are included with the contract. Make yourself a list of bullet points to remember key details.

2. Know when your rent is due, when it’s considered late, and how much the late fee is.

3. Get a renter’s insurance policy, even if it’s not required. This protects YOU and your possessions. The landlord’s insurance does not cover any of your things.

4. Do not let anyone else move into your unit without the landlord’s permission. Know how long a guest can stay (usually 7-14 days) before it’s a contract violation.

5. Understand how the “Joint and Individual Obligations” clause works, if your contract has one (most do).

OTHER TIPS FOR BEING A GOOD TENANT

Financial aspects of renting---

Pay rent on time and don’t let payments bounce.  Over-communicate if your payment will be late (and follow through); provide written payment plan to get caught up.

Move out if you can’t afford it (or ask landlord for permission to add a roommate); don’t let it get to eviction

Keep all utility bills paid on time, and in good standing. Most contracts list utilities being shut off for non-payment as a contract violation, and possible reason for termination of tenancy.

Be a good roommate/neighbor---

Follow quiet hours of the property and be aware of that sound travels. Music, TV or talking should not be heard outside of the unit.

Be courteous and park correctly/fairly. Ask your guests to refrain from parking in the tenant spots.

Don’t fill up the dumpster so no one else can use it (it is generally for household garbage only).

Make sure your guests follow all property rules and don’t damage the property,

Have a written roommate agreement, if you have a roommate.

Maintenance & cleaning---

Report anything that needs to be fixed or addressed. If you fail to report it and it causes damage, or makes the problem worse, you could be responsible for damage costs.

Call repair vendors back if they leave you a message; show up for your appointment or allow entry.

Report any faucet drips, running toilets, leaks, etc. (This is especially important if owner pays the water bill). These items use a LOT of water. 

For garbage disposal and/or drains- things like celery, onion skins, coffee grounds, corn cobs, grease, animal bones, lettuce cores, eggshells, etc. can cause damage and cause clogs in the pipes.

Deep clean your unit regularly so cleaning is easier when you move out.

Clean up after your pets or emotional support animals

Don’t let garbage and recycling pile up- This can attract rats and other pests. If you have too much garbage, make a dump run.

Check your rental contract to see if you are responsible for any yard care.  If you are, keep up on it so it doesn’t get out of hand.

This guide was written and compiled by Sarah Albin. © 2023

Disclaimer: Sarah Albin is an experienced Property Manager and Real Estate Broker in California, but she is not an attorney. This is not meant to be legal advice and should not be construed as such. Following the advice in this post does not guarantee approval by a landlord or Property Manager. This is useful information to help rental applicants.