Start a Good Landlord Tenant Relationship on Move In Day

Being a good landlord isn’t always about fixing things when they break and collecting the rent on time. Your relationship begins with your tenants the moment they move in and you really need it to be a good start. Your customer service skills will be put to the test and if you make your tenant’s first day a pleasant one, then they will remember this for a long time.

Move in days are stressful for everyone, so trying to make them as stress-free as possible is essential. Not only will it make your tenants feel appreciated but it also will make their stay in your house or apartment a pleasant one right from day one. If you don’t have a good relationship with your tenants then things can go seriously wrong. They will be more inclined to not pay the rent on time or look after the property if they feel that you don’t care about them.

Tenants do not need to tolerate bad landlords anymore, as there is a wide choice of properties to rent. You want them to be in your property because they want to be, not because they have to be.

Included with your tenants’ lease should be a letter welcoming the tenants to your home explaining how you want to have a good working relationship with them. This always starts the relationship off well, as the tenants can see how you want to make an effort with them.

You will of course need to explain the house rules and what is expected of them, if you do this face to face then any questions can be answered as they arise on moving day and not be forgotten or ignored. If you are clear exactly what is expected from them, then they will respect this and will hopefully not break the rules.

Give the tenants a list of all emergency numbers for utilities and emergency information such as how to turn off the gas. Also ensure that you give the tenants at least two contact numbers for you, explain how if in the case of an emergency then they can call at anytime. For lesser reasons, then a boundary needs to be set for calling during late hours.

Preparing an informative but friendly welcome pack is always a nice idea and you could include local information. They might be new to the area and having a guide to area events and shops is always helpful.

You could include a list of local schools, doctors and restaurants, anything that you may think they would find useful and interesting. You could also include some small but useful household items, all those things that are essential but easily forgotten. Coffee, milk and juice will all be appreciated after a long day moving homes.

You can do as much or as little as you want, you do not want them to feel that you are over the top or will be stalking them. First impressions really do count as simple gestures can make both yours and your tenants lives so much easier.