unauthorized improvements to a rental

[Karen S.]

Hi everyone

I am seeking your opinions, suggestions, and input about a situation at our rental property. We have a "good" tenant, pays on time, not too many complaints, etc. Recently we stopped by his place--he was not home-- and noticed that he has made physical improvements to the outside of the property...think something permanent in nature like an arbor or porch railing. Without saying too much about it, we can see the logic behind the improvement and it doesn't look bad, or like poor workmanship, but hey-- the lease says you cannot make permanent changes to the property. At the least, there should have been a request for this improvement, or something like it. we probably would have done it ourselves. 

At this point, we do not want to rip out the work..it looks fine, it's outside, and it (apparently) meets renter's need. HOWEVER, we realize we can't let it stand, the idea that making unauthorized approvals is ok. We are ready to do something, but what? and we are otherwise happy with this renter. Your advice, BP? Hit me with it, I can take it.

[Bob B.]

@Karen S. I would talk to him and see why he did what he did.  I wouldn't worry about permitting issues if it's small and doesn't need a permit.  If it's well done and you approve of what he did, I'd thank him for doing a good job but let him know that in the future he needs to let you know when he wants to improve the house you would like a heads up and give him permission. No need to be a confrontitaional or lease termination situation.  Most tenants aren't in the home improving mode and are just the opposite.  Sounds like he's a good tenant and didn't understand the program.  

I had a long term tenant replace the appliances, install new kitchen cabinets (with my approval) and build a 18' X 24' work shed.  After the kitchen rehab, I told them I would need to raise the rent, LOL..

Good for you for checking on your property on a regular basis.