5 Tips for Building a Good Relationship with Your Landlord

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5 Tips for Building a Good Relationship with Your Landlord

Staff Writer · Apr 5, 2010

Having a good relationship with your landlord can truly make for an excellent living situation. Whether you currently have a bad relationship with your landlord, or are moving into a new apartment, there are several things you can do to create a respectful working relationship.

1. Be Respectful

Although you are paying to live in your apartment, you should respect the building, grounds and other tenants. Keep your apartment and its exterior clean and do not be loud and disrupt your neighbors. Being respectful also means treating the landlord well. Be courteous, honest and considerate of the landlord’s ownership of the building and job in maintaining your apartment and your neighbors’ apartments.

2. Be Timely

The best way to stay on good terms with your landlord is to always pay your rent and any other bills on time. Pay rent no later than the first of the month, but it is really best to deliver your check a few days before the end of the month. If you need to pay utilities or other bills to the landlord also, include them on the same check and deliver it at the same time you pay your rent.

It is also advisable to note your apartment or account number on your check. This will help the landlord maintain his records, and provide you with a record of your timely rent payments.

3. Be Understanding

Having to maintain several apartments, your landlord is most likely extremely busy. It may not always be possible for him to immediately make non-emergency repairs or respond to regular inquiries. Be understanding that he will attend to your repairs and questions when able, and do not demand a particular response time. If you have a busy schedule it may be helpful for you to leave him a message stating the times you will be available. This will help both you and the landlord because you will be able to set aside that time to talk.

4. Stay on Top of Repairs

While you are the apartment’s occupant, the landlord is its owner. At the very least, he is responsible for maintaining the unit to reduce any damage or depreciation. Even the least handy tenant can make small repairs themselves, such as changing light bulbs in ceiling fixtures and cleaning windows and carpets. Larger repairs, or course, should be handled by your landlord. However, stay abreast of any appliances, fixtures or wiring that seem to be on the verge of not working properly and timely notify the landlord of any anticipated repairs.

5. Abide by the Rules

Each apartment building has its own rules. To maintain a good relationship with your landlord, do your best to abide by these rules. If the building does not permit pets, do not have one in your apartment. If there is a rule against fixing your car in your garage, do not do so. If you absolutely must break a rule, talk to your landlord beforehand and communicate with him that you have no option but to break the rule. Often with advance notice, the landlord may not be too upset at you breaking a rule.

If you want a peaceful, enjoyable living situation, it is vital for you and your landlord to have a good working relationship. Following these five items of advice will ensure that you start on the right foot with your landlord or help you repair a damaged relationship.

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