443-279-2200
Treat the Property Like It Is Your Home
The heading to this subsection is certainly appropriate in theory, but in reality, it may not be true. The theory behind treating a rental property like it is your home is that you should treat the rental property in the same way you would treat your own home. This means the renter should not intentionally damage or otherwise neglect the rental property. It also implies that the renter should care for the rental property by making necessary repairs as they arise.
However, the reality of this heading is not true because renters are often not free to treat a rental property like it was their home. Homeowners are free to make modifications at any time to their property. Renters do not have this option and are only allowed to make modifications which are permitted by the contract agreement. These permissible modifications are usually rather insignificant in nature.
Seek Assistance From the Property Manager When Warranted
Renters should also seek assistance from the property manager when there are repairs which fall under the jurisdiction of the property owner or manager. Such repairs might include items such as unclogging drains, fixing appliances, and making modifications to the residence, such as installing lighting features. Although the renter may be capable of performing some or all of these actions, the rental agreement may specify these items are the responsibility of the property owner or manager. Renters who attempt to fix these items may be held liable for damages which occur during these attempts.
Similarly, the rental agreement may imply, by omission, that certain items are the responsibility of the renter. These may be small items, such as changing light bulbs, or similar items. In these cases, the renter is free to make the adjustments. However, in other situations where the rental agreement specifies the apartment manager will handle certain complaints, these complaints should be called to the attention of management.
Bayview Management offers residential, office, and commercial real estate for rent in the Greater Baltimore Area. To find out more about Bayview Management in Towson, Maryland, please call (443) 279-2200.