Why is this important? Here’s an all-too-common scenario that occurs when a tenant moves out (and a situation you want to avoid and protect yourself from): A tenant leaves without paying their last two utility bills, and then the utility company won’t turn on service for the next tenant until the unpaid amount has been collected. Your new tenant is left frustrated, without utility service, harming your reputation as a rental property owner, while you’re trying to collect payment from the previous tenant or footing the bill yourself.
15. Above-Ground Pools and Trampolines
You might not have thought of this, but what are your rules for above-ground pools, trampolines, or other hazardous items that could be placed on your property? These are essential legal liabilities waiting to happen! What if someone injures themselves on a trampoline or drowns in the pool? You’ll be held responsible.
16. Parking and Vehicles
Parking and vehicles can create a whole host of issues, so you’ll need to spend some time with your attorney developing rules. Here are some potential issues to consider: • Too many vehicles. If your tenant has too many vehicles (more than your parking space allows), this can cause tension, conflicts, and complaints with the neighbors. Your tenants could take up a lot of street parking or even park in your neighbors’ spots. Your neighbors could call you or file a complaint with the homeowners’ association (HOA) or your city’s code enforcement, which will cost you both time and money to resolve. However, if the rules are spelled out in your lease (and are legal), fixing these
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