How do you manage difficult tenants?

1 Screen tenants carefully

The best way to avoid difficult tenants is to prevent them from renting your property in the first place. That's why screening tenants carefully is essential for property management. You should check their credit history, income, references, and criminal background before signing a lease agreement. You should also have clear and consistent criteria for accepting or rejecting applicants, and document your reasons for doing so. This can help you avoid discrimination claims and ensure that you find qualified and reliable tenants.

2 Communicate clearly and respectfully

Another key to managing difficult tenants is to communicate clearly and respectfully with them. You should provide them with a copy of the lease agreement and explain the terms and conditions, such as rent amount, due date, late fees, maintenance responsibilities, and rules of conduct. You should also respond promptly to their inquiries, complaints, and requests, and keep them informed of any changes or updates regarding the property. You should also maintain a polite and professional tone when dealing with them, even if they are rude or aggressive. This can help you establish trust and rapport, and prevent misunderstandings and disputes.

3 Enforce the lease agreement

If you encounter a tenant who violates the lease agreement, such as paying rent late, causing noise or nuisance, or damaging the property, you should enforce the lease agreement and take appropriate action. You should document the violation and notify the tenant in writing, specifying the nature and date of the violation, the consequences, and the steps to remedy the situation. You should also follow the legal procedures and timelines for issuing warnings, notices, or eviction notices, depending on the severity and frequency of the violation. You should also keep records of all your communication and actions, in case you need to prove your case in court.

4 Negotiate and compromise

Sometimes, managing difficult tenants may require some negotiation and compromise. For example, if a tenant is facing financial hardship and cannot pay rent on time, you may offer them a payment plan or a rent reduction, in exchange for extending the lease term or performing some maintenance tasks. Or, if a tenant wants to break the lease early, you may agree to let them go, as long as they find a suitable replacement or pay a termination fee. Negotiating and compromising can help you resolve issues amicably and avoid legal hassles.

5 Seek professional help

Finally, if you are unable to manage difficult tenants on your own, you may seek professional help from a property manager, a lawyer, or a mediator. A property manager can handle the day-to-day tasks of managing your property, such as screening tenants, collecting rent, handling maintenance, and dealing with complaints. A lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and obligations, and represent you in court if necessary. A mediator can facilitate a dialogue between you and your tenant, and help you reach a mutually acceptable solution. Seeking professional help can save you time, money, and stress.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?