How to Deal with a Landlord

I have been both a landlord and a tenant and have some suggestions as to how to make things go more smoothly.

Suggestion One

Keep a copy of your rental agreement! It lists everything that you and the landlord must do to get along. Some contracts are very detailed, for example: Torn screens are your responsibility while a leaky roof is theirs. Make sure that whatever problem you're having is listed on the contract before calling the landlord.

Suggestion Two

Depending on the landlord, you may either need to write a letter, explaining what you need them to do, or make a phone call to them. Be precise and polite. Don't demand that they get their ass in gear this minute for something minor. If it is urgent, like a badly leaking roof or an electrical problem, offer to pay for it and take the price off the rent. Again, it depends on the landlord. A private party is more likely to allow this than a big rental company.

Suggestion Three

When there is any doubt as to who is liable for a problem, offer to split the price of repair. For example, if your rented home is next to a golf course and a stray ball takes out a window and it isn't listed in the contract, offer to pay for half the replacement. This is one of those occasions when renters insurance comes in handy.

Suggestion Four

If the problem is in the plumbing, first make sure that you are not the cause. If your three year old has flushed a towel down the toilet, for example, you call a plumber and don't mention it to the landlord, because that's what he'll tell you to do. On the other hand, if the sewer is leaking into your yard, call him (or write and send it EXPRESS mail).

Suggestion Five

If you desperately need repairs and the landlord doesn't respond in a timely fashion, you can contact an attorney. Usually one call from an attorney will suffice to get the landlord in gear. If the same response happens with every problem listed as the landlord's duty, you should consider moving if at all possible.

I hope these suggestions will be helpful to you.