CHAPTER 14 How to Handle the Move
Tenants come, tenants go. But they don’t last forever, and even if you happen to have a “dream” tenant, you must expect them to move out at some point, according to the terms of your lease and/ or if they’ve found a new place to live, if they’re moving due to job transfer, if they’re buying a house, etc. Part of being a successful rental property owner is learning how to handle the move out. Below are some of the steps you’ll need to take when a tenant advises you that they’re moving out.
CHECK THE CONDITION OF THE PROPERTY FOR DAMAGE
After a tenant moves out, check the condition of the property to make sure there isn’t any damage. Go to the home, by yourself, and do a walkthrough inspection (this isn’t the same as what a certified home inspector would do, of course). Go through the entire home. See if there are any issues. For example, open the cupboard and cabinet doors, open the fridge doors, move the fridge back to check behind it. Check behind any framed wall pictures or paintings for any wall damage. Lift up any loose carpets or throw rugs. Check behind and underneath sofas. Again, go through your entire property to see if it’s in the same condition as when the tenant moved in. If you find damages or other issues, you need to reimburse yourself out of the tenant’s security deposit or contact the tenant and have them work out some sort of arrangement for paying you to have the property fixed. 104
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