It’s essential to understand the significance of the exterior when overseeing a rental property. The property’s exterior greatly impacts its value and curb appeal. Maintaining the exterior properly is important, and tenants’ role in keeping it visually appealing should be factored in.
It’s important to remember that differing views on the property’s appearance can create challenges. Some tenants may desire to not only maintain the yard but also make changes or additions to the exterior of the rental property. Due to the popularity of DIY home projects, it’s becoming more frequent for tenants to make improvements, sometimes without the landlord’s consent.
Common types of unauthorized tenant changes
For instance, your tenant may believe that a patio umbrella doesn’t suffice and wish to replace it with a pergola. It may seem simple to allow them to construct one in the yard, but this could lead to permit violations, property damage, and personal injuries. If, for example, someone was injured in the process, you could be dealing with a major legal issue on top of everything else.
Issues like broken sprinklers, damaged gas lines, or poor workmanship can cause expensive repairs and create a hazardous backyard, leading to major financial repercussions for the property owner.
The same issues arise with other typical home improvements, such as painting, garage door replacement, or adding a deck or porch. Unique personal tastes and/or substandard remodeling can lower the property’s value, making it more difficult to rent out. Allowing tenants to take on home improvement projects themselves is not a sound 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.
Regular property inspections are vital to verify that tenants have not made any unauthorized modifications. 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 connect with Real Property Management Bella. We accomplish regular property evaluations in Menifee and nearby to prevent unauthorized tenant improvements in their tracks. If you want to understand more, please contact us online or by phone at 951-916-4329.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
