Property Preservation Tips in Southwest Michigan – How to Keep Tenants from Ruining Your Rental

Our topic today is how to avoid tenant damage. We will share a few tips on how to preserve your property and protect it. This is usually a top priority for any landlord. No one wants to rent the house out to someone and then find it trashed after those tenants move out.

Property Condition

Have your property in good condition before you rent it. When your property is in good condition, the tenant will see that it’s important to you, and they’ll do a better job of keeping it that way. The tenants who will keep a property in good repair are looking for a property in good repair. Make sure you provide that.

Tenant Screening

Screen potential tenants well. Conduct background checks and call landlord references so you can find out how they left their last rental. Gather credit and employment histories, and look for a criminal record. You want a good idea of who is moving in. Be thorough because this is an important part of the rental process.

Periodic Inspections

Periodic rental inspections will also protect your property from tenant damage. We go over this with the tenant during lease signing. We let them know that every six months, or in some cases every three months, we will be there to inspect the home. This leaves the tenants to live in peace and privacy but also gives you the opportunity to check the property on a regular basis. It holds them accountable. Use these inspections to take note of needed repairs, and always take pictures. Look around and see how the tenants are caring for the property. Make sure there are no leaks under the kitchen sinks, and check for other things that can cause damage. The tenants understand you’re doing this to keep the property well maintained.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at Real Property Management Southwest Michigan if you have any questions or need any help.