Being a landlord or property manager can be a challenging job. While many tenants are responsible and respectful, there are always a few who try to take advantage of the system. In this blog, we will explore some of the common tricks tenants play in the rental world. By understanding these tactics, landlords and property managers can be better prepared and equipped to handle such situations.

1. False References:

One of the tricks some tenants employ is providing false references to create a positive impression during the application process. They may provide the contact information of friends or family members who pretend to be previous landlords, giving glowing recommendations that are entirely fabricated. To counter this, it's essential to verify references by conducting thorough background checks and speaking directly with past landlords.

2. Subletting without Consent:

Some tenants may attempt to sublet the property without obtaining proper consent from the landlord or property manager. Subletting can lead to various issues, including breaches of lease agreements, additional wear and tear on the property, and potential liability concerns. It is crucial for landlords to clearly outline their subletting policies and include specific clauses in the lease agreement to prevent unauthorized subletting.

3. Unauthorized Pet Ownership:

Pets are a common cause for disputes between landlords and tenants. Some tenants may try to sneak in a pet without obtaining prior approval, violating lease agreements that explicitly state no pets are allowed. To avoid such situations, it is vital to have a comprehensive pet policy in place, clearly stating the rules and regulations regarding pets. Regular property inspections can also help identify any unauthorized pets.

4. Late Rent Payment Excuses:

Paying rent on time is a fundamental responsibility for tenants. However, some tenants may resort to various excuses to delay or avoid paying rent altogether. They may claim that the payment got lost in the mail, blame technical issues with online transfers, or complain about maintenance issues to justify withholding rent. Landlords can counter these tricks by clearly stating the consequences of late payments in the lease agreement and implementing a strict rent collection system.

5. Improper Maintenance Requests:

Maintenance requests are common in rental properties, and most landlords are committed to addressing them promptly. However, some tenants may exploit this by making excessive or unnecessary maintenance requests, using them as a bargaining chip for rent reductions or other concessions. It is crucial for landlords to establish clear guidelines regarding maintenance requests and ensure that tenants are aware of what constitutes a genuine emergency.

6. Intentional Property Damage:

Unfortunately, some tenants may deliberately cause damage to the property with the intention of blaming it on wear and tear or pre-existing issues. They might damage walls, fixtures, appliances, or flooring and then claim that it was already in that condition when they moved in. Conducting a thorough move-in inspection and documenting the property's condition with detailed photographs can help protect landlords from such fraudulent claims.

7. Unauthorized Roommates:

A common trick is when tenants secretly move in additional occupants without notifying the landlord or obtaining their consent. This can lead to overcrowding, increased wear and tear on the property, and potential breaches of lease agreements. It is crucial for landlords to clearly define the occupancy limits in the lease agreement and conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance.

8. False Injury Claims:

In some cases, tenants may try to claim injuries that allegedly occurred on the rental property, seeking compensation or using it as a way to break the lease agreement. They may exaggerate the extent of their injuries or blame hazardous conditions that were not present. Maintaining good documentation of property maintenance, promptly addressing repair requests, and having liability insurance in place can help protect landlords from fraudulent injury claims.

9. Breaking the Lease Agreement:

When tenants want to terminate their lease early, they may resort to various tactics to avoid financial penalties or responsibilities. They might claim to have a legitimate reason for breaking the lease, such as a job relocation or health issue, even if the claims are unfounded. Having a well-drafted lease agreement that clearly outlines the terms and conditions for early termination, including penalties and notice requirements, can help landlords enforce the terms of the lease.

10. Harassment and Intimidation:

While uncommon, there may be instances where tenants engage in harassment or intimidation tactics to coerce landlords into providing concessions or ignoring lease violations. This can include making false complaints to authorities, threatening legal action, or creating a hostile environment for other tenants. In such cases, it is important for landlords to maintain open lines of communication, document all interactions, and seek legal advice if necessary.