Renters of single-family rental homes want to enjoy their pleasant home with the company of their family and friends all year round. The outdoor spaces are a vital part of the home, and tenants may want to put their spin on it by adding things to the yard. For many of them, this is a way to enjoy their Spring rental home.
Just like when modifying the home’s interior to suit your style, adding non-permanent decor and design is the best method for tenants to place their personal touch. Items such as patio furniture, potted plants or trees, and so on are both functional and in compliance with the terms of the lease.
The predicament is that not all tenants can reign themselves in. There are some that aren’t content with adding throw pillows to the outdoor space. There are some tenants that may want to add something prohibited, like a firepit. Even the small, freestanding firepits available at most home improvement stores present a serious risk, and many cities and counties have specific regulations regarding where and when they can be used.
Tenants may also want to perform more permanent changes without express permission from the owner. They may attempt to do something such as installing an awning or in-ground fire pit, adding a new path or walkway, or installing a new fence, pond, trees, bushes or perhaps even a shed or gazebo. They may not understand the difference between buying and propping up a freestanding barbecue grill to the patio and building one in the yard. Because of this situation, you need to talk with your tenants and explain to them clearly what they can and cannot add to their yard. Along with having that conversation, their lease agreements should clearly point out the consequences of unauthorized changes and additions.
However, even though you’ve placed all the safeguards, the tenant still goes on and makes changes to the yard without asking permission. When this happens, you’ll need to take decisive and appropriate action. One way to be sure your renters don’t break the stipulations written down on the lease is to hire the Real Property Management Republic. We make sure to explain all of the do’s and don’ts of home improvement projects to your tenants and perform regular property evaluations. By doing this, you are assured that they are complying with the lease. If a violation is discovered, we will go through the necessary actions. We will contact your renters and work closely with them to reach the best possible resolution. Do you have any questions you want to be answered? Feel free to contact us online or by phone at 281-362-5001.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
