A Landlord And Tenant Attorney Can Help Both Parties

Hiring a landlord and tenant attorney may be necessary when disputes come up regarding rental property. Landlords as well as tenants occasionally have challenges in maintaining this important business relationship. Problems may arise but neither party likely wants a disagreement to result in a broken housing arrangement. The renters don't usually want to move and the owners of the property don't want to lose the cash flow from the rent. With a bit of finesse and a solidly written lease, many problems can be avoided. When issues do come up, they may need to be handled by a competent lawyer. When should you get one involved? Knowing when it's time to seek their assistance can mean a successful resolution.

The Lease Agreement

One of the best ways to avoid conflict is with a well-written contract - otherwise known as a lease. Every detail should be spelled out and the document must be signed by both parties. Some of the items listed in the contract include the length of the rental agreement, such as one year or more, how much notice must be given if either party plans to vacate, the date rent is due each month, how much of a late fee will be added on for untimely payments, whether or not pets are allowed, and who can and will be living in the residence. This contractual agreement is meant to protect both the owner of the property and the person or family renting it.

Security Deposits

When a rental agreement is first initiated, there will be monies collected known as security deposits. Some are refundable and others are non-refundable. Pet deposits, for example, are often not refundable. This is extra money paid up front for any damage or extra wear-and-tear done by Rover or Fluffy. There may also be non-refundable cleaning deposits or redecorating fees. The bulk of the deposit funds should, however, be refundable if the unit is returned at the end of the lease in good shape. So that there will be no confusion by either party on the condition of the unit when it was initially rented, a checklist of existing wear-and-tear will be marked, signed, and filed.

Typical Disagreements

There are various disagreements that typically require a third party to sort out. Some examples are broken leases, illegal activities being carried out in the dwelling, damaged property, a landlord coming into a rental home without permission or security deposits not returned even though the property was vacated in tiptop shape. Having good communication skills from the very beginning is important as well as having mutual respect for each other. In the best of cases, disputes can be worked out calmly and without bringing in the law. When that's not possible, it may be necessary to bring in a knowledgeable landlord and tenant attorney.

When it comes to rental properties, there is a lot at stake when disputes arise. The owner of the property wants to keep his or her place maintained, undamaged and with a steady stream of rental income. The individuals renting the space want privacy, to stay in their home or get out of a lease if they're being mistreated. With a savvy landlord and tenant attorney, all of this can be achieved.