Newbie First Property, Tenant Wants Fence & Shed

[Vlad B.]

Haven't owned the property more than 24 hours and lower unit tenent wants to have their son rent the upper unit, build a shed for hands on work, and a fence for their dogs (2 huskies). Tenent is saying that they will buy the shed and fence and it will be with the home when they leave.

I heard a podcast on RE horror stories where there was a lawsuit over a shed. Is this a trap, please help.

[Mike McCarthy]

@Vlad B. Need to check local codes. Some areas require permits and zoning for sheds and/or fences. Some areas get picky on set backs and such, while others don’t care much.

As long as it’s a purchased shed (not built from scratch), I don’t see too much issue. Worst case, you need to pay to have it removed when they move out. Fence, I would need to have installed by a reputable company.

I think for both you need to have a discussion on specifically what they are planning. A Rubbermaid 6x8 she’d purchased at Costco is different than a 10x12 wood shed built in place. Same with the fence, is it a 3’ chicken wire fence, or wood, etc.

Lastly, what kind of feeling do you have about these tenants. Long term, good tenants? Or pain in the rear? Feel free to tell them that you need to get everything settled out from the sale first, let’s re-discuss in February.