Bought occupied property: discrepancy in lawn maintenance

[Jiten Patel]

I recently purchased an occupied property and the tenant claims the previous landlord "promised" to maintain the lawn. This was never told to me and it is not written in the lease either. I would like to have a good relationship with my tenant but at the same time I don't want to think they can take advantage...has anyone come across a similar situation and what did you do? Are there any legal obligations?

[David Cruice]

@Jiten Patel, have you asked the former owner what was the agreement.  Don't worry about having a "good" relationship with your tenant.  It's business; not personal.  If it is not in the lease, tell him he is responsible for taking care of the lawn maintenance.  If he says no way, tell him you'll pay to have it cut and charge him back for it.  Make sure you drive by the property often, since I have no doubt the tenant will only cut the lawn once in a blue moon.  Good luck!