The
phrase "absentee landlord" conjures up images of the "tenant from
hell" and an owner who could care less what happens. However, both are
myths... both want the highest return for their investment. What benefits
the homeowner association will also benefit them.
The
Home Owners Association Board can take some steps that will help assure
more of a successful tenancy. It is reasonable to want tenants and
landlords to comply with the rules. Of course, the tenant also has to know
what they are in order to do that. Remind the landlord that the tenant is
bound by the same rules as owners. Include renters with other new residents
who receive information summarizing the rules and amenities.
Landlords should provide the Home Owners Association Board with:
-
Name of the tenant, emergency number and contact
-
Car information (make, model, plate number)
-
A
copy of the rental agreement that lists the association rules as a
condition of the agreement
The last item is the
most important because it places the burden on the landlord to advise the
tenant of rules and requires that the tenant acknowledge receipt of that
information.
Landlords also should:
-
Perform background checks on prospective tenants
-
Gather references from previous landlords (not the present one, who may
have a vested interest in getting this tenant out)
-
Understand the landlord tenant laws.
-
Make sure to identify all occupants in the lease; and
-
Be
clear in the rental agreement about requirements for pets, parking and
other association rules.
Don't treat
tenants like
second-class citizens. Treated like members of the community, they will
probably act the part. Integrating them as neighbors, they will take care of
the property and respect the neighbors. Treat renters like owners and
everyone wins.
