For Renters: What are the Qualities of a Good Tenant?

Qualities of a Good Tenant

What are the qualities of a good tenant that will create a smooth rental experience? When you live in a rental home, you want to be the tenant who pays rent on time, takes care of the property, and gets along well with neighbors. Today, we’re sharing some additional tips that will help you have a positive rental experience.

Follow the Terms of the Lease Agreement

When you sign a lease to rent a home, you’re agreeing to comply with the terms of that contract. This is a binding document that reflects state and local laws. If your landlord discovers that you are violating any part of the lease, you can be evicted from the property. If you have any questions about the lease agreement, be sure to talk to your landlord before you sign the lease and move in.

Landlord Expectations and Tenant Responsibilities

In addition to the general clauses in the lease agreement, you are also required to meet other obligations. You need to follow all building, fire, and housing codes. You cannot turn a non-conforming basement into a bedroom, for example. You’re also required to keep the property safe and habitable. It has to be clean and free of safety hazards. Don’t allow trash, debris, and other waste to gather inside of the home.

It’s also important to prevent mold. When moisture accumulates, mold can develop. Avoid having any standing water in or around the property, and if you notice any mold growth or soft spots in the walls or ceiling that may indicate a leak or water damage, notify your landlord right away.

Operating and Maintaining Property Systems and Appliances Properly

Make sure you’re using your heating and air conditioning systems as well as the plumbing and electricity properly. This will reduce the chance of injury and damage. Keep your showers, tubs, sinks, toilets, and other fixtures clean. Any appliances that are provided by your landlord also need to be well-maintained and cleaned. This includes dishwashers, stoves, refrigerators, washers, and dryers.

Preventing Property Damage

You and your guests will be responsible for any damage that you cause to the property. This includes intentional damage, neglect, and misuse. You are not permitted to remove anything from the property, such as an appliance. If habitability issues arise because you’re not taking care of the home, it will be your responsibility to pay for the repair. For example, if a toilet is clogged because your child flushed a toy, the cost of the plumbing repair will be yours. This includes any damage done by your pet.

Landlord Access and Your Quiet Enjoyment

Your landlord wants you to enjoy the privacy of your home, but there will be times that you’ll need to grant the owner or property manager access to the unit. Your landlord will provide advance notice and will only come during reasonable hours. Respect your neighbors. Don’t be disruptive with loud music, control your barking dogs, and make sure your children understand that other people live around you.

Following the Law

You are not permitted to use illegal drugs or controlled substances. This behavior will violate your lease and can result in eviction or legal action. Your lease agreement states that you cannot use your home for any unlawful purposes. You cannot disable or tamper with the smoke detectors or carbon monoxide detectors. Do not remove the batteries or the detectors, and do not damage the equipment.

Finally, make sure you notify your landlord or Kansas City property manager when maintenance or repairs are required. If you don’t report that something is broken or damaged, the extra time could lead to further and more expensive damage that you will be accountable for.

We hope you enjoyed this article on the qualities of a good tenant! If you have any questions about your tenant responsibilities, please contact us at Key Partners Property Management.