When managing a rental property, it’s important to acknowledge the importance of its exterior. The exterior appearance has a substantial influence on the property’s value and curb appeal. Proper upkeep of exterior elements is important, and tenants’ involvement in maintaining its appeal should be recognized.
Keep in mind that disagreements over the rental property’s appearance can result in issues. Some tenants may wish to go beyond maintaining the yard and want to alter or enhance the exterior features of the rental home. 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 example, your tenant may consider a patio umbrella inadequate and prefer a pergola instead. Letting them put one together in the yard might seem easy, but it’s a potential source of 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.
Issues like broken sprinklers, damaged gas lines, or poor workmanship can cause expensive repairs and create a hazardous backyard, leading to major financial repercussions for the property owner.
The same is true for common home improvements like painting, garage door replacement, or adding a deck or porch. Individual preferences or low-quality renovations can reduce property values, leading to difficulties in renting out the property. Having tenants carry out home improvement projects on their own is not a well-considered strategy.
Prevent tenants from modifying rental property
The smartest strategy is to halt any home “improvement” projects before they even start. Draft clear lease provisions that specify tenants are not allowed to make permanent modifications to your rental property.
Conducting regular inspections is key to ensuring tenants haven’t made unauthorized alterations to the property. Taking this proactive approach can prevent safety risks, lease violations, or property damage, allowing you to keep control over your property.
That’s when you should connect with Real Property Management Affiliates. We accomplish regular property evaluations in Katy and nearby to prevent unauthorized tenant improvements in their tracks. If you want to understand more, please contact us online or by phone at 713-429-0411.
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.
