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Landlord/Tenant Laws: The Bottom Line

Open Landlord-Tenant Lawbook on a Desk

The landlord-tenant relationship is unique to all others. Not only does your tenant have to fulfill obligations (stated in the lease), but you as a landlord and property owner also have particular responsibilities that you are legally obligated to uphold. As you probably know, these obligations are detailed in state, local, and federal landlord-tenant laws. In addition, how strictly you adhere to the rules governing the habitability and other facets of owning Plano rental property has a direct impact on the satisfaction and longevity of your renters. 

In addition to lowering turnover expenses by staying in your rental property longer, pleased tenants will also help you safeguard your investment. Understanding the clear relationship between landlord-tenant regulations and renter satisfaction can help you save expenses and increase earnings year after year. 

Habitability Laws 

As a landlord, you have legal rights and duties toward your tenant. All governmental levels have laws that regulate rental properties. Habitability laws have the most direct effect on the longevity of renters. These laws usually concentrate on the state and security of the rental property. In the majority of states, landlords are obligated to maintain habitable and safe rental properties. This means that the property must comply with certain regulations, such as: 

– a roof that protects against rain and snow 

– abundant hot water 

– working heat source 

– sturdy walls and floors that are not susceptible to sudden collapse. 

– no considerable risk from environmental contaminants including lead, asbestos, or mold 

– reasonable defense against criminal trespass 

Along with not having serious flaws like damaged plumbing, heating, fixtures, or appliances, a rental home must be habitable and pest- and insect-free. This could be the case no matter when the tenant moves in, depending on the area. 

Repairs must generally be completed quickly, and in some cases, you must also offer standard safety equipment such as carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers. If any of these things are missing from your rental home, it may be ruled uninhabitable under the laws of your state or municipality. Ensure that your properties are in complete compliance with local landlord law by conducting research or consulting a local expert on the rental market. 

Tenant Satisfaction and the Law 

Renters will rightly expect Plano property managers to contribute to the property’s upkeep for as long as they reside there. Failing to do so may lead to a high vacancy rate, requiring the needless expense of seeking new tenants every few months. Moreover, if your rental property does not comply with landlord-tenant law, it may result in costly lawsuits and other legal issues. 

Successful property owners understand that having satisfied tenants is excellent for business because of this. Keeping a renter for an extended period helps keep costs low and assures a steady monthly rental income. In addition, a satisfied tenant is far more likely to disclose maintenance and repair issues, allowing you to address issues when they are small and easy to resolve. When both you and your tenant contribute to the maintenance, keeping a property in good shape is much simpler. 

Finding Peace of Mind 

Knowing whether you comply with all landlord-tenant rules can be difficult, not to mention understanding them. Having a team of professionals on hand to assist in these circumstances is important. Real Property Management Focus is a professional Plano property management company that provides industry specialists who are well-versed in landlord-tenant rules. They may evaluate your rental property, give suggestions, assist with upkeep and repairs, tenant relations, and much more. In the end, the cost of hiring a professional property management company is negligible compared to the peace of mind it provides. 

Are you interested in finding out more about our property management services? Contact us online or call 469-820-0088 today!                   

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