Landlord negligence can deeply affect your life financially and medically. As a first-time renter or buyer, it may be overwhelming to keep in mind all steps you need to take to guarantee a smooth tenancy. That is why at RealtyWW.info we have prepared a list of the top mistakes that first-time renters make, to give you a headstart in renting:
Without further ado,
1. Not taking Pictures When Moving In Is a Huge Mistake.
Whether with your phone or with a camera, it’s important to take photos of your property as soon as you can.
Make sure to note down any and all pre-existing damages that you find in the landlord’s inventory and also damage that isn’t on the list. Some damage can be missed due landlord negligence and this way you ensure they know the damage was already present when you moved in. Unless you do so, at the end of lease, your landlord might accuse you to be responsible for the poor property condition..
Here are a few of the common reasons for claims:
- The driveway or pathway to the property are damaged and left unattended.
- Lights and staircase handrails are left in a poor condition.
- Any type of obstacles or signs for a neglected staircase – cracked or missing tiles, slippery steps, and etc.
- Other forms of dangerous floor covering.
- Structural damage of ceiling, walls or other parts.
Make sure to get in writing major repairs that our landlord agreed to make and send a signed and dated inventory list to your landlord if you haven’t been provided one. With the rising trends in disputes, being off guard is simply too risky.
These steps will help to protect your security deposit, so you can receive it back in full. It could also serve as proof in terms you have landlord-tenant disputes being solved in court. An independent, third-party inventory report can help you protect your security deposit where you could get that as a combined service at both the start and end of rent. Some might even offer it as part of other services, more on that bellow.
2. Renting a Property Over Budget
Being a responsible renter includes living within your means, even if you have to settle for a smaller property than you wished to. Although it may seem tempting to go for a property that is close to local amenities or your favourite shop, making this sacrifice will impact more than your bank account.
The general rule is to make sure your rent constitutes approximately 30% of your income. Higher than this amount, you may find yourself falling behind on payments and damaging your relationship with your landlord. This may also extend to future renting possibilities and limit your renting choices.
And again, in case of court disputes at the end of your tenancy, right before you move out, your landlord might use such history to your disadvantage for the final result of a dispute. If you’re a first-time renter, details like that could cost you dearly.
3. Not Reading the Tenancy Agreement Properly
It can be easy to assume that all tenancy agreements follow a standard structure. Although this is partly true, it’s strongly advised that you carefully read your tenancy agreement. This document will let you know what your responsibilities are and what your landlord is responsible for, alongside giving you all the important information you need.
Not reading your tenancy agreement properly won’t help you to be a responsible renter, which can lead to you breaking the contract, being evicted, or losing your deposit due to inadequate cleaning. That’s why companies like the Strong Move out cleaners offer a 72 hr guarantee. Ask your landlord for clarification if post-lease clean up is mandatory – it’s always better to make sure you understand all parts of the document. In case you have property cleaning as an explicit clause within the agreement, you have to comply, otherwise, you could en up the subject of deposit deductions.
4. Skipping Contents Insurance
It’s always advisable for renters to take out insurance on their belongings, as landlords’ insurance policies don’t cover your personal property. Should there be a fire, a flood, a burglary, or other incident that damages your belongings, you’ll be responsible for replacing them. These insurance policies tend to be fairly inexpensive and they help to protect you against incidents that aren’t your fault.
Unless your landlord knew of a pre-existing issue or dangerous conditions, which makes them responsible for the damage, you should make sure that getting insurance on your belongings is a top priority say the experts at Compare Conveyancing Quotes. Risk is simply not worth it.
5. Not Taking Action Against Landlord Negligence
While most landlords are responsible and make sure you will have very safe living conditions, you may not be so fortunate. If your landlord doesn’t address major repairs and dangerous situations, they are likely to be liable to pay you compensation for any damages done to you or your property. If you fail to act in time, again, you might end up the subject of claims.
Final remarks,
This can include a wide range of factors that affect both your health and safety. Make sure to be a responsible renter and follow the guidelines stipulated in your tenancy agreement, however, don’t forget to ensure your landlord does the same. Happy renting and good luck!
September 19, 2018