by Ahmer Byrd

Created on: January 18, 2009   Last Updated: January 31, 2009

"Get Everything In Writing Up Front"!

Land lord tenant disputes are just a fact of life because there's a rush to seal the deal as soon as possible. Usually under normal circumstances you see an ad in the paper about x property, for x amount a month and electric, heat or water is included or not. As a potential tenant, the Ad in your mind is basically the contract but you have to remember it is just a potential sales pitch. The ad is just design to get you to inquire about the property and to set up a possible time to view the property.

Here are a few rules to follow before you enter into an agreement that you might live to regret. Rule #1: always go to the property and have a check list handy to note any possible concerns you might have. This advice is critical, but often overlooked because of the rush to get into a property. On this check list make sure you check: all windows for cracks, check the locks to make sure they work properly, check the plumbing i.e. turn the faucets on or off, check out the bathrooms for cold and hot water, check the heat or air conditioner, take a look at the roof if you can, take a look at the flooring and always ask about the last tenants. After you go over your checklist, then checkout your surroundings and make a mental note on possible concerns especially about you and your family's security.

Finally, sit down with your land lord and tell him any possible concerns up front. Remember the law of assume," don't assume anything because you'll make an ass out of you and me"! Always take a friend or a spouse with you to go over the terms of the lease with a fine tooth comb. Don't be afraid to asks questions and have landlord explain something that doesn't make sense or isn't crystal clear. A big issue that always causes the most disputes is who is responsible for what maintenance issues and if something that isn't working properly who's responsible to fix it? Make sure before you sign anything, to always get everything in writing that you're agreeing to pay rent for. This includes your responsibilities to the property and the landlord responsibilities to the property. Once you sign on the dotted line that makes you solely responsible of whatever is contained on the lease agreement. These few simple steps are preventative steps goes a long ways, so your landlord tenant disputes will be few and far between. When and if problems do arise , making sure everything is written out, not only protects the landlord but it protects the tenant if you find yourself in front of a judge in the court of law.

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