Problems can arise when your perception of a “pleasant” exterior varies from your tenant’s desires. Some renters aren’t content with simply keeping their yard maintained – they want to modify or add to the rental home’s exterior features as well. With do-it-yourself home improvements such a popular craze nowadays, chances are that growing numbers of tenants will attempt to make “improvements” with or without your approval.
There are times when your tenant may feel like a patio umbrella isn’t good enough for them, and they would maybe want a pergola instead. Although it may seem innocent enough, and you’d be tempted to let them build one in the backyard, this is a hotbed for permit violations, damage to the property, and even personal injuries. (If someone gets hurt, you could be dealing with huge legal trouble on your hands, above everything else.) Broken sprinkler or gas lines, damaged siding, and poor craftsmanship can all create pricey renovations and hazardous conditions in the yard.
It is also the same with other trendy home improvements, such as painting, replacing the garage door, or adding a deck or porch. Unique personal preferences and/or low-quality remodeling lower property values, making it harder to rent it out. In a nutshell, it simply isn’t the wisest of all ideas to let tenants make alterations on their own.
The best strategy is to stop home “improvement” projects before they begin. Create clear language within the lease to stress that tenants are forbidden to make permanent changes to your Gallatin Valley rental property. It is also crucial to check on your property every so often, ensuring that a sneaky tenant hasn’t taken matters into their own hands. This takes time away from doing other things.
That’s when you ought to pick up the phone and give Real Property Management Bozeman a call. We perform regular property evaluations planned to avert unauthorized tenant improvements in their tracks. If you are interested in learning more, please contact us online or by phone at 406-586-2226.