Tub at rental property backing up, Tenant complaining. Gave her rental credit for 5 day rent

[Atul Mohlajee]

I have a rental townhouse where tub is backing up and the tenant complained.  Plumber came in on Saturday tried to rod it through sink but it did not work.  They will be back today since this is a bigger job and they might have to open pipes at sink etc. to find blockage.  Gave rental credit of 5 day rent to tenant.  Tenant still complaining.  Did not call another plumber since this guy is the best and have worked with him for many years and gets the job done every time.  He was not available any earlier.  Tenant wanted even more credit which I refused because I do not want her to make a game of it every time something needs to be fixed.  Gave credit to a tenant first time in life since this was a plumbing issue that could not be resolved immediately.  She was complaining heavily by text messages/phone calls for her inconvenience but said she will be fine if I give her $200 over and above $258 already agreed upon.  My properties are well maintained and are in A, A- areas only.  What do you guys think?

[Kristen B.]

I agree with most of the other posters but if it is the only bathroom available and your tenant is a long-term renter who has been in the property for years and will more-than-likely stay in the property for many more years, pay the extra.

I'm a marketing major and we learn that it is cheaper to retain a customer than it is to find a new one. I strongly believe the same holds true for renters.

That said, if the tenant is already difficult and it is not the only bathroom or an emergency, stand your ground. You are already going above and beyond doing more than what most landlords would do by offering her 5 days credit. You do not need to do more. If she doesn't like it, she may hold a grudge and move when the lease is up but it sounds to me like your area is desirable and well-maintained. Most people won't go through the hassle to move just because of this.

Good luck!