Motive of Tenant Behaviors

[Jacky Johnson]

Hi I'm a landlord. I have tenant who has been renting my SFH for the past 8 years. In the past, I have noticed he was installing security cameras in the front door, on the window in the living room facing outside, and in the driveway. I have also noticed that he repainted the security door that was rusty to new paint. He has a background in law enforcement, painting, and engineering construction inspection, and public works. He has been paying rent in a timely manner and keeping the SFH very tidy, but I'm concerned he is a sophisticated and experienced tenant who may be wanting to take over my home from his actions above. What should I do? Should I be concerned?

[Laticia Braxton]

It sounds like you have the perfect tenant!  He's taking "ownership" of your home by making improvements and that is highly desirable for a landlord, as long as he has your approval first. If he is doing these things without asking for landlord's permission first, you need to review your lease, to make sure he is in compliance.  If you don't currently have language in the lease that speaks to tenant's ability to make repairs, replacements or changes to the house, you should consider adding that into your lease when the next renewal period comes around.