Managing the relationship.
WHAT MAKES IT WORK
Paying on time Communicating in writing Reporting problems promptly Reasonable expectations on both sides
WHY IN WRITING
It is the record when something is disputed.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
A means of contact that produces a record.
WHAT TO KEEP
Every message and receipt.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT DISPUTES
Raise them in writing, specifically, with what you want resolved.
WHAT TO AVOID
Escalating verbally Withholding rent as leverage without establishing your position Allowing problems to accumulate
WHY ACCUMULATION
It makes resolution harder and it appears as a pattern of complaint.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT ENTRY
That notice is given, except in emergency.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT ENTRY WITHOUT NOTICE
Raise it in writing, referencing the agreement.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT RENT INCREASES
What the agreement permits What notice is required
WHAT TO DO ABOUT AN INCREASE
Establish whether it is permitted and whether it reflects the market.
WHAT TO CONSIDER
Negotiating, particularly if you have been a reliable tenant.
WHY
Landlords value tenants who pay and do not cause problems.
WHAT TO AVOID
Agreeing to changes verbally.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Any agreed change in writing.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT HARASSMENT OR THREATS
Record it Establish what protection exists Seek advice
WHY
Threats, lock changes and disconnection of services to force departure are unlawful in many jurisdictions.
WHAT TO NEVER ASSUME
That you can be removed without process.
