Understanding Landlord Forms And Their Purpose

By Matt Baumberger


Having income property to rent to another party can be profitable but it is important to understand the legal matters before entering into an agreement. This is designed to protect both parties and the details are spelled out clearly. Having relevant landlord forms on hand when finalizing a step, helps the tenant processing.

Sometimes when ads are placed, the response can be overwhelming. By using a pre-screening prospect card, this will help the person who is showing the property filter who may be a possible fit. Another important factor that should be established early on is whether smoking is permitted on the property. The landlord may add a no smoking addendum to a lease in the beginning or during tenancy. This is to protect his physical property from possible damage and other liabilities.

The property owner should always be aware of those who will occupy the unit being leased or rented. If a landlord chooses to have pets on the property, the terms and conditions should be defined in a pet agreement. This is to be signed by both parties and adhered to while unit is occupied.

Tenants that leave their units vacant from time to time may want to consider leasing to someone else in their absence as a way to save money. The landlord should establish whether this is acceptable early on. Using a sub lease agreement will help all three parties understand what is to be expected.

Entering a rental property can be an unusual situation when the tenant is not present. While some landlords feel they should be able to enter at any time, often this is illegal and may inconvenience the tenant. By presenting a notice of intent to enter the premises to the tenant as early as possible, this may clear up some confusion. When the tenant completes a work order, a reasonable time may also be arranged between both parties.

When the tenant demonstrates behavior that is offensive to others, the property owner presents a lease violation notice. This may be used to warn or is the next step to evicting a tenant if the matter continues. Landlords may also present a notice to pay or quit when rent is late. This is the first step to a legal eviction if no other arrangements have been made.

While many landlord matters are serious, it helps to keep records of all transactions. If either party goes to a court to resolve a matter, having a strong paper trail will help the property owner if their actions were just. The use of landlord forms helps both parties understand what is to be expected and the landlord can streamline his rules.




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