Does anyone charge a "call out fee"?

[Colin Ross]

Hi all - I just got my first rental property, and I am writing my rental agreement. I was thinking about adding in a "call out fee" clause, which basically says that if they call me to the property, they pay me $20 (reduce frivolous calls) which will be reimbursed if the thing that they called about is something that should be covered by me. I did some quick searching, and didn't find anything obvious. Is this something that people do? How would you write the clause in the agreement?

Many thanks

Colin

[Michael Boyer]

And think about the incentives some. 

You may actually "want" them to call about the leak or squeak as you could catch it early....before it becomes more costly...

 If the tenant thinks it may cost 20 bucks, they may figure why risk reporting the drip drop sound behind the wall, the ineffective bathroom exhaust fan, rust around the water heater base, or clank in the appliance (remember their interest in the maintenance of your property is probably not that great; it's your place in the end... and they may be short term)....

They are also your eyes and ears, so maybe, as mentioned already, in the on-boarding you can communicate their obligation to report legitimate property issues without calling you on a whim for something silly (like give them examples... don't call me if you spill a glass of water; do call me there is any leaking water from pipes; don't call me if you see a spider; do call me if you see a racoon family under the porch etc)....

Best of luck!