Landlord Question and Answer Forum

I have a new tenant that has moved in . Every day I see a new email from him . One day he mentioned there is noise coming from toilet . the next day it was fixed by itself . today he mentioned couple of electric outlets are not working though he can manage with the working ones . At what point do I draw the line ?

Communication is key to keeping a tenancy running smoothly. Did you do a move in checklist ?

Posted by Clark F, OK on Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Do you think there is real problems at your house. I make sure mine is in tip top shape from the time someone moves in. However there is always something that can break. Last time it was the furnace and disposal for me. A outlet either works or it dont. Maybe you need a new breaker in the panel. Also I agree with Mary Ann. Comunicate Maybe there is problems with your house. Dont get mad, check it out for yourself. Best of luck to you. Hope everything works out for you

Posted by Travis T, MD on Wednesday, March 6, 2013

There is no line. Keep accurate records. If outlets aren't working get them fixed. I know some on my outlets are on a light switch, make sure they are aware of these. Always do a move-in checklist, and make sure they initial and sign the sheet, this is your saving grace come move-out time. If your repairman continues to go back and things are in working order, and after discussing the issues throughly with your tenant, and his "phantom" issues don't get resolved, you have two choices. 1. End the agreement with a 30 day noitce 2. Suck it up, and endure it. Hope this was helpful

Posted by Stephanie M, PA on Thursday, March 7, 2013

Have you talked to your tenant about this situation? If not, then you definitely need to do it. Together with your tenant you can make lists of issues of high, moderate and low urgency. And ask him to contact you only in case of high urgency issues. And he can inform you about other repairs during property inspection.

Posted by Ross A, NY on Friday, December 9, 2016