How often should i check on tenants

[Henry Kam]

Hi fellow landlords, i currently own several duplexes in a low income area and would like to know how often should i check on tenants and walk my units. These units are being managed by property management, but i would like your take on whether or not it is a good idea to check and communicate frequently personally with my tenants.

I had both good and bad experience, some tenants tends to complain more about various issues after i visit them and walk the unit. Still trying to figure out if being a friendly landlord is better or being more out of reach so they dont get spoiled (for lack of a better term)

Thanks everyone!

[Kevin Fox]

Hey @Henry Kam

Great question.  I think that the answer will depend on a couple different things.

1, What do the civil code/other applicable laws say about conducting general inspections? 

I'm not sure about NY, but in California they're prohibited all together.  The only cases where inspections are permissible are if it is done in connection to making repairs, improvements, or another service, but ONLY if requested BY THE TENANT. (I know; ridiculous, but what's a guy to do)  So, step one should most likely be checking up on local laws/civil codes.

2. What does you lease say about inspections?

In CA, you are actually also prohibited from having a term in the lease where the tenant 'waives' the restriction on general inspections. So, doesn't really apply here, but I think that might be the next place to look after you brush up on the laws/CCs in your area.

3. How often would you LIKE to inspect the properties?

Once you know what you can and can't do legally, it really comes down to how frequently or infrequently you want to take the time to go out and walk the properties.  This may vary by tenant, or it may not. One thing to be careful of, though, is making sure that you're not too overbearing. The last thing you want is to cause an otherwise great tenant to look elsewhere because they perceive your frequent visits as you being nosy/un-trusting.

Hope that helps! Feel free to reach out with any other questions.