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Landlord/Tenant Laws: The Bottom Line

The relationship between a landlord and tenant is unique. Not only does your tenant have to fulfill obligations (stated in the lease), but you as a landlord and property owner also have particular responsibilities that you are legally obligated to uphold. You are probably aware that these requirements are enumerated in state, local, and federal landlord-tenant statutes. In addition, the degree to which you adhere to the regulations governing habitability and other areas of Hixson rental property ownership has a direct bearing on the satisfaction and longevity of your tenants. 

Satisfied tenants will protect your investment by staying in your rental property longer and lowering turnover expenses. You may maintain low costs and high revenues year after year by learning more about the direct connection between landlord-tenant laws and renter satisfaction. 

Habitability Laws 

You have rights and responsibilities as a landlord concerning your tenant. All tiers of government have numerous laws that apply to rental properties. Habitability laws have the most direct effect on the longevity of renters. These types of rules primarily focus on the maintenance and safety of the rented property. For instance, landlords are obligated to maintain the habitability and safety of their rental properties in the majority of states. This implies that the property must meet fundamental conditions, including: 

– a roof that prevents snow and rain from entering 

– acceptable hot water 

– consistent heat 

– durable walls and floors that are not subject to suddenly buckle or crumble. 

– no considerable risk from environmental contaminants including lead, asbestos, or mold 

– reasonable security against intruders 

A habitable rental property must also be devoid of serious flaws, such as malfunctioning plumbing and heating, fixtures, and appliances, and must be pest-free. This may be the case even after a tenant has moved in, depending on the locality. 

In general, repairs must be made promptly, and in some locations, you also have to supply common safety gear like carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers. If any of these necessities are lacking from your rental home, your state’s or municipality’s rules may declare it uninhabitable. Ensure that your properties are in complete compliance with local landlord laws by doing some research in your area or by consulting a professional in the rental market in your area. 

Tenant Satisfaction and the Law 

Renters will expect Hixson property managers to contribute to the upkeep of the property for as long as they reside there. Failing to do so may result in a high vacancy rate, necessitating the needless cost of finding new tenants every few months. It may also result in costly lawsuits or other legal issues, particularly if your rented property does not comply with landlord-tenant law. 

For this reason, effective landlords recognize that a high level of tenant satisfaction is simply good business. Long-term tenant retention helps keep costs low and offers stable monthly rental income. Moreover, a delighted tenant is much more likely to disclose maintenance and repair issues, allowing you to address issues when they are small and easy to fix. When both you and your tenant contribute to the maintenance, keeping a property in good shape is much simpler. 

Finding Peace of Mind 

It might be difficult to comprehend landlord-tenant legislation and to be sure that you comply with each one. In these circumstances, there is no alternative to having a team of professionals available to assist. An in-depth understanding of landlord-tenant regulations is provided by industry specialists in Hixson property management companies such as Real Property Management Your Home. In addition to evaluating your rental, they can offer advice, assist with upkeep and repairs, manage tenant issues, and much more. In the end, it is a tiny fee to pay for peace of mind to hire a qualified property management firm. 

Would you like to know more about our property management services? Contact us online or call 423-704-9944 today!                   

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