All Forum Posts by: Theresa Harris

I'd find out why the electricity is so much.  Do an inspection-they may be doing something illegal (eg grow op) to use that much electricity.  I'd also check the meter to see if there is a problem.

When is the lease up for renewal and when was the rent last increased?  When the lease is up for renewal, I'd change it.  Even if you drop the rent $25-50 a month (assuming it is already at market value), have them pay the utilities.

Don't make it more complicated. If you have one and it says it goes to month to month after the initial year, write up that you are following the terms of the initial lease with the exception of....then add in anything that is different (eg rent, giving notice, etc).

Once they are out of the property, you can't do anything with an eviction.  You can take them to small claims court for back rent, but even if you get a judgement in your favour, the chances of you seeing the money are slim. you can get then get it out on their credit history.

Best option if they are behind in rent (not 1-2 days, but over a month) is to get the out as quickly as possible.

If you retile, put cement board in the back.  I prefer the solid surrounds, but not the flimsy ones.

it is worth a try, but if they don't pay, then follow through so the eviction is on their record, regardless if you ever see that money or not.

As long as they get the job done on time, it shouldn't matter.  It is normal for most people to work 5 days a week-everyone needs some time off.  As others said make sure if you change the scope of work, you realize that it will take longer to do.  Talk to them and see what information they need from you (eg cabinets, paint colour, countertops, etc) and make your decisions quickly so you don't hold things up as there are a lot of moving pieces.

In some areas laneway or carriage homes are quite common (ie two homes on one lot-usually one is smaller).  If you are going to be renting both out, think about common space (eg yard) and access to parking.  From a landlord's perspective, it is not much different than renting a duplex or a basement/in law suite where you have to separate tenants in one area.

I'm sure most places don't require signatures. My suggestion for having it signed was more to give you proof that you gave it to them, when and that they received it...just in case they say they never received it. 

 At least they are being honest.  Good luck.

If she's honestly going to do better paying the rent, you could give her a chance.  To make it easier for you (ie less stressful), you may want to break her rent into two payments (ie 1st and 15th).  You can add late fees if you want.  Also if you do it month by month, you can give her notice at anytime.  I'd also check if she's currently on her utility bills (if they are tied to the house rather than the person living there).