No Pay Day
Make sure that the cheque or electronic transfer for the rent and deposit has cleared before you give the tenant the keys. If the tenant misses a rental payment, chase them up promptly.
Unfortunately, there is very little that you can do if they continue not to pay and refuse to move out. Most people have to resort to filing a civil court case, which is a lengthy process. At the end of that case (which might include appeals), you can apply for compensation and a warrant for forcible eviction. If the tenant has no money to pay compensation, the landlord/lady can still end up seriously out of pocket. You cannot use the small claims tribunal for property related matters. Seek legal advice early; it’s not wise to take the law into your own hands.
Better still, take out landlords/ladies insurance to cover nonpayment of rent and / or the legal costs of evicting a tenant.
Entry Way
You should give notice before you enter the property, as outlined in the contract (generally a minimum of 24 hours), unless there is an emergency.
Low Down on Damage
You have the right to keep the renter’s deposit to pay for any damage, but be sure to keep receipts for the work that you do. It is your property ultimately, and you should exercise your right to access the property every few months to see that all is in order. If there are damages, insist that these are fixed immediately and make sure that you are paid for these over and above rent payable. In this way, you will always have the deposit intact for any other expenses that may come up.
Always be fair and transparent, ensuring that any expenses incurred are documented.
