Bad tenants is something every landlord is bound to face as a Baltimore real estate investor. It can be extremely frustrating but the issues are usually pretty manageable. Here’s some tips on how to deal with them.
So, when you are a landlord and the tenants living in your house are driving you crazy you may want to pull your hair out and just give up. Don’t fret, you don’t have to take such drastic measures. Most problems can be handled calmly and rationally when you face them head on. Keep reading to learn more about some of our best tips for handling bad tenants in Baltimore.
# 1 -Address The Problems Head On
First and foremost it’s important to stay calm and rational. Most tenants are facing problems of their own so try to reason with them. Often times problems can be worked out if understood and addressed together. For instance, a tenant might not be aware of their dog barking when they are at work. If it is politely brought to their attention, they are made aware and the problem can be solved. Communicate any complaints against them and if they are doing something in violation of their lease, this starts the conversation. Allow them time to correct their actions before escalating things further. Most people will be pretty reasonable and will work with you to find reasonable solutions.
# 2 – Keep Records of All Communication
When communicating with tenants, it’s wise to document everything in case you need to use it down the road. Make sure to save texts, emails and make notes of direct conversations. Keep a documented log showing your communication with any and all tenants. This information is very important should you need to deal with the eviction situations later on.
# 3 – Get A Property Management Company Involved
As a property owner, you don’t have to deal with tenants all on your own. Hiring a property management company can be a great option and can ultimately save you time and money in the long run. Your property management company should be extremely well versed in the laws and rights of the landlord and tenant to best manage the situations that arise. Leveraging their experience and expertise will help you handle bad tenants and with the eviction process if it comes to that.
# 4 – Increase The Rent
Keep track of when their lease is up? One of the options is simply to not renew it. Raising the rent is also something to consider to help you monetize your hassle. This option may get them to leave on their own. Always make sure you are doing everything legally and by the book. You don’t want to give a bad tenant any possibility to take advantage of your poor judgment or mismanagement.
# 5 – Consider Eviction
If you are at your whit’s end, have had enough and really want them out of your house, your final option is eviction. It’s very important to understand that you can’t just change the locks, throw out their stuff, turn off the utilities or harass them in any way. You will need to properly file the eviction notice, providing cause as to why you want them out. All of the supporting documentation you have collected will be used to prepare your case so make sure you have it available. I In most situations, it may take a while to get through the system, but once the courts see your case, you will be able to force them to leave right away. If they are still refusing to leave, you can call the local sheriff’s office and have them escorted out the difficult way. Hopefully, with open communication you are able to resolve your differences before it gets to this point. Eviction isn’t only unpleasant for them, it can be trying for you as well.
Even with all of the issues we have discussed the benefits to owning a rental property far outweigh the negative things that can happen. As with any investment, it is best to be prepared for any and all situations that may arise. If you have simply decided being a landlord and dealing with all of the issues that can arise, selling may be the best option for you.