Rental Information

Prospective Landlord’s Advice

The main issue in being a successful (and less stressed) landlord is selecting the best possible tenants and ensuring the rental property is well maintained. If you don’t have the time to keep up a property on your own, or if you own several rental properties, you can very quickly become inundated. This is the main reason Chas Everitt Gauteng Rental Agents are selected in the first place – they are there to assist you on both points!

Pick your Rental Management Agency carefully.

If you are not going to personally manage your rental units, you are going to have to use a reputable agency to manage the process for you. Take the time to select a reputable agency with a proven track record. Ensure that the agency (and their staff) you choose is correctly registered with the Estate Agents Affairs Board, that their Fidelity Find certificates are current and that their staff are correctly qualified.

All references must be checked - properly.

Problem tenants are sometimes incredibly adept at creating a good impression and can pull the wool over even the most experienced of landlords eyes. It is imperative that genuine and verifiable references are obtained and that the necessary time and care is taken to check them out.

Male sure everything is in writing.

This is as important for your tenant as it is for you as the Landlord as it protects everyone’s interests. Whatever is agreed upon (or not!) must be reduced to writing. This includes everything from the initial application to agreements/rules/conduct issues etc. If something needs repairing get your tenant to make the request in writing despite the fact that they may have advised you in person or telephonically. It’s a good habit to help you keep track of expenditure and it ensures you have an accurate history for each property and tenant.

Offer your tenant a clean and SAFE property.

Keep your rental property clean and properly maintained. Not only does it make it a load easier to rent, it reduces any liability, makes for a happier landlord/tenant relationship and is simply a case of protecting your investment. In SA today, security is a key issue, depending on the location of your property to let, you may want to review/add/upgrade your security. This not only helps keep your tenants safe and makes for an easier let, it may also have a positive influence on your own insurance premiums.

Use a valid lease agreement.

SA is one of the most legislated environments in the world and laws are constantly changing with regards to the likes of the Housing Acts, Consumer Protection issues etc. It is absolutely vital that the lease agreement you use with your tenants is well-drafted and covers all the necessary issues. If you are handling your own properties, have your agreement checked by an attorney to cover the bases.

Adequately Insure yourself.

Make sure that you have the correct level of insurance, property liability insurance etc. If you have to claim or your rental agency needs information ensure you have all the information readily available – a tenant with a burst geyser who has to spend days waiting for this to be settled can become your worst nightmare!

Repair QUICKLY.

Tenants have the right to decent living conditions – and if there are genuine repair issues, attend to them promptly. If you are using an agency they will generally have a list of service providers available who can assist. Certain repair issues such as plumbing, appliances and electrical issues cannot be delayed.

Treat your tenant Fairly.

Look after your tenants and in the main they will look after you. Strive to treat your tenants fairly. Try and out yourself in their shoes and understand their position. Having a good relationship with your tenants makes your life a lot more pleasant and will pay dividends on the likes of longer let periods, reduced payment delinquency and a better cared for property!

Respect tenants right to privacy.

Whilst it is not unreasonable to inspect a property, spare a thought for your tenant and be understanding in the process. Most rental agencies provide the tenant with a schedule for inspections and will ensure that the matter is handled courteously and with fair notice.

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