As a landlord, you may be careful to screen tenants and only rent to people who seem like suitable matches. Still, occasionally, you may find someone slipping through the cracks and leaving your property damaged despite a vetted practice.
The renters may still live on your property, but you’ve noted some substantial damage. They might have a good history with you, and you’re wondering what you can do to repair your investment and maintain the relationship with the tenant.
Talk to your tenants
Suppose your tenants have been model citizens for years; this is the first issue. In that case, you might want to try to resolve the issue between you. Sometimes the most straightforward solutions are the best options.
You can always talk to your tenant about the damages and take photographs. If the damages don’t exceed the security deposit, using that could be an option, too.
Alternative conflict resolution
Sometimes talking isn’t enough, and you feel like your only option is to seek legal recourse. With the worry about court costs, length of hearings, and process of going to trial, you might be concerned.
There are several practical ways to alternative dispute resolution from a relational point of view. Mediation may be one way to seek a solution without going to court. Mediation can be helpful because it can:
- Save time and money
- Help each party feel heard
- Preserve a relationship
Resolving a conflict with grace
If talking doesn’t resolve the issue, mediation may be one way to recoup your losses and still protect the business relationship and your reputation. It’s also a great way to preserve your landlord-tenant relationship for the future.