Tenant's DOs and DON'Ts

Here are some guidelines that tenants should follow when living in a rental property:

1. Pay Rent On Time: Rent is usually due on the first of each month and should be paid on time, as agreed upon in the lease agreement. Late payments can result in late fees and other penalties.

2. Respect the Property: Tenants should take good care of the property and keep it clean and well-maintained. This includes properly disposing of trash and not damaging the walls, floors, or fixtures.

3. Follow Building Rules: Tenants should follow any rules and regulations set by the building or property owner, such as quiet hours, smoking policies, and pet restrictions.

4. Communicate with the Landlord: If you have any concerns or issues with the property, it's important to communicate with your landlord promptly. This can help to avoid misunderstandings and resolve problems quickly.

5. Respect Your Neighbors: Tenants should be considerate of their neighbors and not engage in loud or disruptive behavior. This includes playing loud music, having parties, or parking in a way that blocks other residents.

6. Follow Local Laws: Tenants should also follow local laws and regulations, including those related to waste disposal, parking, and pet ownership.

7. Report Maintenance Issues: If you notice any maintenance issues with the property, such as a leaky faucet or broken light fixture, you should report it to your landlord promptly. This allows the issue to be addressed before it becomes a larger problem.

8. Keep Common Areas Clean: Tenants should keep common areas, such as hallways, lobbies, and stairwells, clean and free of clutter. This helps to maintain a clean and inviting environment for all residents.

9. Store Personal Belongings Properly: Tenants should store their personal belongings properly, including not leaving items in common areas or hallways, or blocking exits or fire escapes.

10. Follow Energy Conservation Guidelines: Tenants should follow guidelines for energy conservation, such as turning off lights when leaving a room and properly sealing windows and doors to reduce heating and cooling losses.

11. Return the Property in Good Condition: When you move out, you should return the property in the same condition it was in when you moved in, normal wear and tear excluded. This includes cleaning the property, fixing any damage, and removing all personal belongings.

12. Pay Utilities and Other Fees Promptly: If your lease agreement requires you to pay for utilities or other fees, such as parking or storage, you should do so promptly and as agreed upon in the lease.

13. Get Renters Insurance: Renters insurance is an affordable way to protect your personal belongings in case of theft, fire, or other unexpected events. Consider getting coverage to protect your valuables and ensure peace of mind.

14. Keep the Property Secure: Tenants should take steps to keep the property secure, such as locking windows and doors when leaving, and properly storing keys.

15. Know Your Rights: Tenants should familiarize themselves with their rights and responsibilities as laid out in the lease agreement and local laws. This includes understanding your rights to quiet enjoyment, privacy, and safety.

16. Use Caution with Subleasing: If you are considering subleasing your rental property, be cautious and follow local laws and the guidelines set out in your lease agreement. Ensure that you are comfortable with the person you are subleasing to and that the arrangement will not violate the terms of your lease.

17. Be Courteous to Others: Tenants should be courteous to others and avoid engaging in behavior that could be considered disruptive or inappropriate. This includes being respectful of others' privacy and personal space.

By following these guidelines, tenants can help to maintain a positive and harmonious living environment and protect their rights and interests as renters.