Ways a Lawyer can Assist a Landlord:
1) Evicting a Tenant
It can be tough to evict a tenant. Even with a good reason, getting a renter out can be tricky. You have to give a certain length of time for a tenant to get their belongings out of your rental. If they are reluctant, it can be a long process. It's important to consult a lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks if you plan to evict a tenant. An experienced lawyer can help walk you through the process and let you know what rights you have as a landlord.2) Tenant Fails to Make Payments
If you are struggling to get payment from your tenant, you may have to take legal action. Give your renter a reasonable length of time to make the payment. Try to work with them as to when they can pay you. If you make an effort to get the payment from the tenant, it shows that you are willing to negotiate and work with them. If you are past the point of working it out, a lawyer may need to be involved.3) Renter is Injured and Holds You Responsible
A renter may get injured on your property and claim you should be responsible for the accident. This is a tough situation to be in and you should consult legal assistance as soon as you are accused. Getting a lawyer involved can help guide you as to how you should proceed and if you have a case or not. A way to avoid this situation is to help ensure your rental property is safe for your tenants before an issue arises.
4) Ensure Lease is Accurate
Before someone rents your property, it's important they sign a lease. This is a legal contract between the landlord and the renter. As with any legal document, a lawyer should look over this paperwork before you have your tenant sign it. This documentation can help legally protect you in the future, should you need it.5) Tenant Causes Damage to Property
Most lease agreements state who should be responsible for maintenance and damage to the property. Typically, the owner is responsible for normal wear and tear and the tenant is responsible for any significant damage they cause. If the tenant does not repair the damage they cause, they may be responsible for paying for the damage to be repaired.Tips for a Troublesome Tenants:
Have Both Parties Sign A Comprehensive Lease - A proper lease agreement is the foundation of a successful landlord-tenant relationship. Your lease agreement should clearly outline all expectations tenants are expected to meet.
Keep A Written Record Of All Correspondence - As you work with your tenant, it is wise to keep a written record of all communication.
Consider Eviction As A Last Resort - When your tenant violates your lease agreement or becomes problematic in another manner, your first approach should often be to simply talk with them.
Document All Payment Activity - As a landlord, it is essential that you keep thorough documentation of your tenants' payment activity.
Now that you've read about a few of the common situations that can arise when you own rental property, you know a few of the dangers that may be ahead. Renting can be a prosperous venture but there are a few circumstances in which you need to protect yourself and your property. It's important to know all of your legal options if you plan to be a landlord at the Lake of the Ozarks. Give Gibbons Law Firm a call today to see how we can help with your unique landlord/tenant situation.
Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.
Your Trusted Legal Resource
Gibbons Law Firm
2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4
Lake Ozark, MO 65049
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