Entering into lease agreement can be both exciting and nerve-racking for both sides. Are you getting a good deal? What should I do to make sure the tenants are good? Is the property safe? These are just some of the questions that may be going through your mind. Well, there is a solution to this issue. However, it is important to at least follow these steps before signing a lease. As a tenant, you want to inspect the home before signing. During the inspection, make sure to document any issues such as damage to doors, malfunctioning windows, chipped tiles, stained or soiled carpet, walls needing paint, etc. Also, make sure to ask if there are any structural issues such roof problems or issues with the A/C unit. Finally, discuss what will be your responsibility and the landlord’s responsibility when it comes to the maintenance of the property and make sure you are comfortable with your responsibilities.
For the landlord, you should do a proper inspection of your tenant(s). Any tenant should be reviewed to avoid having tenants who do not pay rent timely or are known to cause significant damage to the property prior to entering into a lease agreement. Some ways that accomplish the task of vetting include obtaining background checks or obtaining letters of reference from the tenant. Bear in mind, the best reference letters are those from past landlords, if there have been any. Requesting a copy of the tenant’s credit score is also an option. Regardless of your method, you should be able to gather enough facts to make a proper determination if the prospective tenant will be a good fit.
Not sure if the property you want to lease is a good fit for you? Don’t know if you have done enough to confirm the tenant will abide by the lease and be responsible? Contact SG Law Group. Our attorneys can help you through the landlord-tenant process from both sides to ensure your interests are protected.
