Tenant Complaining About Us Not Fixing His Issue Fast Enough

[Ximing Feng]

Hi guys,

Hope this finds you well!

We just closed on our first rental property. After 2 weeks the tenant reported that their bedroom window sliding off the track and it does not block the wind if it is windy at night. So we scheduled a contractor last Friday (March 12) to fix it. The contractor secured the window and suggested that the window needs to be replaced. He said he can order the window and have it ready in 3 weeks. The tenant stated that 3 weeks are too long, which we understand. So we promised to get it replaced within 3 weeks. They agreed with it. 4 days after, while I am still trying my best to schedule a contractor for him, he called me and said it needs to be replaced as soon as possible cause the window is still having the same issue. Then he complained that we are very strict on our rule: "you don't allow me to smoke, you charge me just because I have dogs in the house" (and a lot of colorful languages lol) He said he will do it himself and hang up and phone without letting me say anything... I know we are enforcing a very standard contract with the tenant which the previous owner should have enforced. However, I wonder if we actually are too slow on scheduling the contractor for them. I called a lot of contractors and all of them are telling me that they are fully booked for at least 2 weeks. I don't mind dealing with the frustrated tenant and I will keep trying to contact more contractors but I am not sure what you would do if you were me? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you very much! 

[Greg M.]

The tenant is testing you. See how far I can push the new inexperienced landlord and see what I can get away with. Don't let it happen.

Let the tenant know that 3 weeks is not out of line for window replacement. If they are unhappy you are willing to terminate their lease right now. 

Let the tenant know that you will be enforcing the terms of the lease. If they are unhappy you are willing to terminate their lease right now.

Let the tenant know that they are not to perform any work on the unit without your express written permission. If they are unhappy you are willing to terminate their lease right now.

Let the tenant know that if they are unhappy for any reason, you are willing to terminate their lease right now.

When this lease is up, don't renew. Find a better tenant.