The Most Common Questions Tenants Will Ask You

Often as landlords, we prepare for what we want to ask prospective tenants. However, landlords aren't the only ones with questions. When you meet interested renters, they will have a slew of their own questions for you. 

The following are some of the most common questions from tenants. 

Common Tenant Questions

Who do I contact in the case of an emergency?

One big concern for tenants is knowing who to call when a maintenance emergency transpires. If you want to keep happy, long-term tenants, make sure you have a plan in place for emergency situations. For example, if a pipe bursts in the middle of the night, should they call you? Should they call a pre-chosen plumber? 

Make sure you provide your tenants with a list of contacts at the time of move-in. Let them know how to best handle situations and when possible, empower tenants to call for emergency HVAC or plumbing services.

Will you provide notice before you show up?

Another concern for tenants is how much privacy they will be afforded. Keep in mind, renters value their privacy just as much as you do. One common question from tenants is centered around what kind of notice you will be providing before you visit the property. This isn't necessarily an indication that they plan to do anything wrong but could just be that they have been bothered in the past by an uncourteous landlord. 

Create a fair policy and let your tenants know upfront what kind of notice you will provide before you show up to their home. Also, be sure to check with local state and city regulations as many locations have laws surrounding the requirements for notice.

Who handles the outdoor maintenance?

A lot of the first questions you will get from tenants pertain to responsibilities. A clear explanation of what the tenants are required to upkeep will go a long way in preventing frustration down the road. One major question in this regard will pertain to the yard work. 

Are tenants responsible for mowing, trimming, and other landscaping tasks? Should they prune the trees or will you be hiring someone to handle the major tasks in the spring and fall?

Make sure you let your new tenants know what their responsibilities are so that you can hold them accountable for what should be done.

What can you tell me about the neighborhood?

When you are showing the property, be prepared to answer questions about the neighborhood. Many renters will want to know about the safety of the area as well as what the nearby neighbors are like. This is particularly true in the case of duplexes or rentals where walls will be shared.

It can also be helpful to let you renters know a little bit more about what is in the area. Are they a close walk to places to dine or shop? Are there nearby trails? By giving potential renters an idea of what is in the area, you can help sell the place further and give them an idea of what to expect.

These are just a few of the most common questions renters ask, what have you noticed potential tenants want to know more about?