Having a good landlord can make a world of difference when it comes to your rental experience. If this is your first time renting, it’s important to know what makes a good landlord and what red flags to look for that should nudge you to keep looking. To help you make the best choice before signing any lease, here are some key things to look out for in a landlord.
Landlords play a big role in the experience you’ll have as a renter, so it’s crucial to ensure that they are respectful towards their tenants. They shouldn’t be rude, unprofessional or make you feel uncomfortable at any time when living in your rental space. You can usually pick up on this during your viewing of the property. If not, ask a current tenant or two if you see any around the property. They’ll give you an honest review.
The number one complaint among tenants usually focuses on property maintenance. When something is damaged and you request it to be fixed, your landlord should acknowledge it and address the repairs in a timely manner. This is especially true if it’s something like damaged front steps that could become a safety hazard. It’s their responsibility to maintain the property to a safe and habitable standard, and it’s your right to ensure they do. Pay attention during your search to see whether the properties you’re viewing appear to be well maintained or not.
There are specific rules and regulations that landlords must abide by in every jurisdiction. For example, if they need to repair something in your unit, they should be giving you at least 24 hours notice before entering your apartment, except in the case of an emergency. If you are unsure what your rights and responsibilities are as a tenant, check with the Landlord and Tenant Board to make sure you aren’t being taken advantage of.
At Medallion Capital Group, we always aim to be respectful and effective representatives of the landlords we work for. We are a full-service property management firm offering top quality service for properties throughout the GTA. To learn more about our services and how we can help you, contact us today!