How To Handle Demanding Tenants

Without a doubt, every landlord will encounter tenants that demand more than is fair. While an overly demanding tenant can simply seem like a nuisance, they can actually become a more serious issue. If you don't know how to handle demanding tenants they can cost you money and time. 

Check out how to best handle demanding tenants, starting from the moment they move in all the way until they move out.

#1: Set Expectations Upfront

From the first moment you meet potential tenants to the day you welcome them into their new home, you need to set the right expectations up front. For example, if they critique things about the property during the showing, be sure you politely but firmly state the house will be rented as-is. 

By setting the right tone initially, you can save yourself from a slew of demands down the road. If they don't like the rental unit, it is better you find out during the initial stages and that you are firm in your stance so they know to move on.

#2: Be Professional But Firm

Even if you set the right tone from the start, some tenants will test you after the lease is signed and begin demanding too much. While it is normal for a tenant to request repairs or maintenance to items that fall under your jurisdiction, an overly demanding tenant will take it a step further. Demanding tenants might ask for things such as all new flooring, improved appliances or brand new paint

At the very start, remain professional and firm. State clearly that the house was rented as-is and while you understand their requests, at this time you will not be making any additional improvements to the property.

While it might be tempting to negotiate and bend a little to make your tenants happy, when you start giving in to one or two requests, you will open up Pandora's box. If you think some of their suggestions are valid, create a list for yourself of improvements you want to consider. Take some time to think it over and down the road, on your time, not theirs, implement the improvements you think are fair and profitable for you.

#3: Reset Expectations If You've Already Messed Up

If you find yourself further down the path and you have already given in to one too many tenant requests, you may have trained your tenants to become increasingly demanding. While it is best to start out from day one with the right expectations, you can always begin again. 

Remind your tenants that you have already gone above and beyond with the upgrades you did agree to and that going forward you will no longer be taking requests for upgrades to the property. Let them know that in the future any upgrades will be a decision you make and that you will inform them of any changes you decide upon.

Recognize that you will probably get some push back if you change from being a pushover to standing your ground. Prepare for them to be upset and remind yourself that this is a business you are running.

#4: Don't Let Them Take Matters Into Their Own Hands

When you refuse to implement the demands of tenants, be prepared for the to ask to take matters into their own hands. For example, they may change their tactic and tell you they will handle all the labor of the project if you provide the supplies. While you may think, "Great! Free labor!" you should not allow your tenants to implement their own changes. This will put your property at risk for low-quality work and will give your tenants the impression that they can make whatever changes they want to the property.

#5: Always Refer Back To The Lease They Signed

A good lease should include language about not allowing tenants to make changes to the property without your written consent. If they throw a fit when you won't upgrade or allow for changes (such as adding a fire pit to the backyard), refer back to the lease. Let them know that in the lease they signed, they agreed to renting the property as it is and that the lease does not allow for changes to be made by the tenants.

What about you? How do you handle demanding tenants?