Acknowledging the significance of a rental property’s exterior is key when overseeing it. The exterior appearance has a substantial influence on the property’s value and curb appeal. Regular maintenance of the exterior is essential, and tenants should be encouraged to help maintain its appearance.
It’s crucial to be aware that varying opinions on the property’s appearance can lead to complications. Tenants might not only be interested in maintaining the yard but also in making changes or adding features to the rental home’s exterior. The DIY home improvement trend has led to a rise in tenants attempting property upgrades, occasionally without the landlord’s permission.
Common types of unauthorized tenant changes
For instance, your tenant might find a patio umbrella insufficient and decide they want a pergola instead. 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 someone were to get injured during the process, you could face a serious legal issue on top of everything else.
Faulty sprinklers or gas lines, damaged siding, and shoddy work can result in expensive renovations and a hazardous backyard environment, causing significant financial strain for the property owner.
The same goes for other common home improvements like painting, replacing the garage door, or adding a deck or porch. Personal design choices and/or poor-quality renovations can decrease property value, making it harder to rent out. Allowing tenants to take on home improvement projects themselves is not a sound strategy.
Prevent tenants from modifying rental property
The smartest strategy is to halt any home “improvement” projects before they even start. Include clear terms in the lease stating that tenants are not permitted to make permanent changes to your rental property.
Regularly inspecting your property is essential to ensure tenants haven’t made unauthorized alterations or 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 it’s time to call Real Property Management Washington DC. We accomplish regular property evaluations in Washington DC and nearby to prevent unauthorized tenant improvements in their tracks. If you want to understand more, please contact us online or by phone at 202-813-9993.
Originally Published on Mar 22, 2019
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.