If I buy a duplex and rent both suites out, am I responsible for the yard maintenance, snow removel etc... it is a up down suite with a shared yard. Is there any way out of doing the maintenance if it is up to me to do it? I only own single family homes so far.
2007-05-04 10:10:09 · 3 answers · asked by Vanessa 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
In the end, it is your contract with them that will determine how the yard maintenance is done. The official contract often doesn't say anything about landscaping. You can create a separate rider that adds to that contract, and their is nothing wrong with doing so. It doesn't have to be fancy, but be professional and make sure it is signed and dated. If one of the renters is determined to be in charge of the yard, and that is really up to your discretion, then make the agreement with the renter and write it up in a separate rider that they sign. Typically it will state that the rent will be $xxx if the tenant takes care of the maintenance as described in the rider or a higher dollar amount if the tenant fails their duties. Be specific about what the duties are if you go this route.
You have had some success with having your tenant take care of the yard before. Therefore, if you feel comfortable leaving it to the renter, make it happen. Sometimes a yard is set up in a way (on a multi-unit property) that a tenant doesn't really see value in keeping it trimmed the way you would like it. At this point it is definitely worth it to make sure that yourself or another professional are taking care of it. Usually the amount that you pay a professional is relatively close to what you would pay or lose in rent to a tenant and the reward for using a pro is a fantastic yard.
2007-05-04 10:53:17 · answer #1 · answered by gaamalii01 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can charge the tenant to do this, but ultimately yes you are responsible. If you don't want to to it personally then charge the renter an additional $25 .00 and hire someone to take care of the lawn and landscape.
All tenants are not able to take care of the lawn and maintenance that goes with it so I take it out of their hand. I hire a professional to do it.
I hope this has been of some use to you, good luck.
"FIGHT ON"
2007-05-04 10:17:12 · answer #2 · answered by loanmasterone 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
usually it it the landlord that takes care of lawns, etc. You can hire someone to do the yard,, or maybe one of the renters would do it for a fee or for a cut on rent. At least it's a tax deduction,,,,
2007-05-04 10:22:09 · answer #3 · answered by Jo Blo 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋