While being a landlord can be extremely lucrative, it’s not always an easy job. One of a landlord’s most important responsibilities is ensuring that their tenants are satisfied. However, even the best landlords will eventually receive complaints from their tenants.
Having a good understanding of common tenant complaints and how to solve them can help attract long-term tenants and keep them happy. This article will discuss the top five tenant complaints and how to solve them as a landlord.
Noise
Noise can affect tenants’ ability to rest and relax in their homes. Excessive noise can also be a major source of stress and can lead to physical health issues such as headaches and fatigue. Tenants most often complain about noise from external sources, such as construction or loud neighbors. However, loud appliances, plumbing, and HVAC systems can also inspire a tenant to reach out to their landlord.
Solution
To avoid noise complaints, we recommend taking preventive measures such as conducting regular maintenance checks. If a problem does arise, landlords can resolve it through proactive communication and fixing any maintenance issues that arise before they escalate.
However, sometimes it’s impossible to prevent noise complaints, especially when loud neighbors are the cause. While speaking with neighbors is usually the best way to avoid future issues, if neighbors are causing recurring problems, it may be necessary to involve law enforcement.
Maintenance Issues
Even the best-kept rental property will have a maintenance issue or two pop up on occasion. Whether the problem is a broken appliance, a leak or a faulty furnace, it’s crucial to address maintenance issues as soon as you are aware of them.
These kinds of issues can put the health and safety of tenants at risk. Additionally, a lack of maintenance can lead to a decrease in your property’s value and tenancy rates.
Solution
Conducting regular property inspections is the best way to prevent and mitigate maintenance requests from your tenants. We recommend doing the following items during routine property inspections.
- Checking for cracks in the foundation and walls
- Inspecting the roof for leaks and missing or damaged shingles
- Cleaning gutters and downspouts
- Trimming trees and shrubs around the property
- Assessing the furnace, hot water heater, and HVAC system
- Ensure there are no leaks in the plumbing system
Pest Infestations
Pest control issues can present a significant problem for tenants. These problems range from unpleasant odours and damaged property to severe health risks. Some pests, such as cockroaches, mice, and rats, can spread bacteria and germs that can cause serious illnesses, while bed bugs, wasps and hornets will often bite or sting tenants. Pests can also carry parasites, such as fleas and ticks, which spread diseases.
Solution
Creating a pest control plan is one of the best ways to prevent pest infestations and mitigate their severity should one arise. Additionally, check for signs of pests every time you inspect the property and quickly patch any holes that a pest could enter the property through.
In some cases, pests can be controlled with do-it-yourself methods. However, in most cases, it is best to leave pest control to the professionals. Professional pest control companies have the experience and expertise to safely and effectively get rid of pests.
Security Concerns
Tenants want to feel safe in their homes. That’s why landlords should always prioritize tenant complaints about increasing the property’s security features.
When a tenant feels unsafe, they can suffer mentally and physically from the stress. In addition, a poorly secured property puts tenants' safety at risk from theft, vandalism, and even violent crime. If you do not take measures to ensure tenant safety on your property, you may be held liable for any harm that comes to your tenants.
Solution
The best way to improve your rental unit security is to add security measures or upgrade current systems. For instance, you can install security cameras, add deadbolts to exterior doors, and improve exterior lighting. If you are considering installing security cameras, it is essential to check with local laws to ensure that you are in compliance with all regulations.
Limited Parking
Limited parking can be an inconvenience for tenants who need to commute to work or school every day. Additionally, limited parking can lead to overcrowding and an increase in local traffic. If your tenants cannot find parking easily, it can cause conflict with neighbors as they compete for the limited spots available.
Solution
There are a few ways you can solve this problem. One solution is to offer reserved parking spaces for an additional fee. This will ensure your tenant always has a spot available. If your tenants don’t want to spend extra money on parking, you can recommend nearby public parking lots or direct them to city hall to enquire about parking passes.
Conclusion
Relationships between landlords and tenants can be complicated. However, understanding the most common tenant complaints and potential solutions can help ensure your tenants remain satisfied while living in your rental. With open communication and mutual respect, landlords and tenants can resolve any issues that arise in a timely manner.
If you need help with solving tenant complaints or any other aspect of property management, reach out to the experts at Nest Finders Property Management today!
