When you rent out your property, you’re naturally hoping for responsible tenants who follow the lease. But even with the best tenants, issues can sometimes come up. And if you’re new to managing rentals, dealing with a lease violation can feel daunting.
One practical step as a landlord is to introduce yourself to the neighbors. They can be a valuable set of extra eyes, letting you know about any potential issues, like noise disturbances or unexpected pets, that could indicate a lease violation.
In reality, even respectful tenants might occasionally overlook a rule in the lease. That’s why it’s helpful to know how to handle different types of lease violations. A lease is a legal contract, and both you and your tenant agree to uphold it. So, having a clear understanding of what qualifies as a violation—whether major or minor—sets the stage for resolving any issues smoothly.
Some lease violations are fairly common, like late rent payments or accidental property damage. The good news? Many of these can be prevented with a few proactive steps. In this article, we’ll walk you through identifying, addressing, and hopefully preventing these types of lease issues.
Unauthorized Pets
Pets bring a lot of joy, but they can also cause wear and tear, which is why many property owners choose to prohibit them. Even so, some residents may try to keep a pet on the sly, which can lead to issues if it goes against the lease agreement. Setting clear expectations upfront—like emphasizing that unapproved pets can be grounds for eviction—often helps deter this from the start.
On the other hand, allowing pets can be a good option, especially if you’re open to charging slightly higher rent to cover any potential pet-related damage. A pet-friendly policy might even attract a wider range of renters, and the extra rent can go toward keeping the property in great condition.
It’s also important to note that under the law, property owners cannot deny service animals or emotional support animals. These animals are protected, so even in a “no-pet” property, it’s essential to be aware of the rights of tenants who rely on these animals for their well-being.
Keeping Things Clean and Pest-Free
Maintaining a clean home is key to preventing pests and creating a comfortable living environment. To help tenants with this, it’s important to set clear guidelines around trash removal and cleanliness. Provide easy-to-understand information about how and when to dispose of trash, including the schedule for pick-up days, and make sure there are enough trash containers available. This way, tenants know exactly what’s expected and can avoid issues down the road.
A little guidance goes a long way in keeping the property tidy and pest-free, making it a better space for everyone. Plus, when everyone’s on the same page, it helps keep the property in great shape over the long term!
Managing Landscaping and Yard Care
Sometimes, landlords prefer to leave landscaping and yard upkeep to tenants, either to save on costs or to keep things simple. Unfortunately, this can lead to overgrown lawns and unkempt gardens if tenants don’t prioritize it or simply forget.
One way to avoid this issue is to hire a landscaper yourself, ensuring the yard is well-maintained and keeping the property looking its best. If you decide to go this route, it’s still a good idea to outline responsibilities in the lease, especially when it comes to watering. While the landscaper may handle mowing and trimming, tenants should be responsible for regular watering to keep everything lush and healthy.
To make sure the yard stays in good condition, set clear expectations in the lease about watering frequency and explain that tenants should not turn off sprinkler systems or adjust watering schedules. A quick drive-by now and then can help you confirm the landscaping is getting the care it needs without having to ask directly. With a clear plan and open communication, you can keep the yard looking great and avoid the hassle of a neglected landscape!
Late or Unpaid Rent
If you’ve rented properties for a while, chances are you’ve dealt with tenants who’ve paid rent late—or even missed payments altogether. One of the best ways to avoid this headache is by screening tenants carefully from the start. A good screening process should include a credit check, verification of income, and a look at their rental history to ensure they have a reliable track record.
Once you’ve selected a tenant, offering flexible and convenient rent payment options can make a big difference. Options like online payments, in-person payments, or direct deposit often make it easier for tenants to stay on track with rent. When payment is straightforward and accessible, it encourages timely payments, which is a win-win for both parties.
To protect yourself and set clear expectations, it’s also wise to outline a late fee policy in the lease. Specify when rent is due each month, the amount of any late fees, and at what point they apply. A clear, upfront late fee policy can help motivate on-time payments while ensuring there’s a structured approach if delays happen.
Handling a Lease Violation
When a tenant violates their lease, some landlords prefer to start with a friendly warning. This can involve a simple conversation where you set a clear deadline for resolving the issue or even working out new terms if that’s appropriate.
However, if a warning doesn’t resolve the issue or if you need to take more formal action, a 3-Day Notice is the next step. This notice gives the tenant three days to correct the issue or vacate the property. This approach allows tenants a fair chance to comply before any further action is taken.
If the tenant doesn’t address the violation within the given timeframe, you may need to consider legal options, including beginning the eviction process.