When you move into a new place you probably want to be there for awhile. Let’s face it, moving isn’t exactly most people's idea of fun. In fact, it’s a whole lot of work. You also want to have a great relationship with your apartment manager. In some instances, the renter-manager relationship can be a point of contention, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are 6 ways you can be a good tenant living in Chico rental properties.

1.  Read the lease before signing

Before you even sign on the dotted line and officially move in make sure you read the lease agreement completely. That way there are no expectations from the property manager that you are unaware of. On the flip-side you’ll know what the property manager IS expecting, so you can start off being the ideal renter right away.

For example, if you have a friend or relative that visits constantly and stays with you that can be included in the lease so the property manager doesn’t think you have someone else living there that they aren’t unaware of. It goes both ways too. If the property manager agrees to a service, like providing weekly landscape maintenance of the property, it should be included in the lease so that if it doesn’t happen you have proof it should. 

2.  Pay rent on time

This should be a given, but if your rent check is late more often than not, then the property manager is not going to want to continue renting to you because he isn’t sure whether or not he’s going to get paid. This can affect the bills and responsibilities he has and ends up creating a snowball effect. If you mail your check, do it a couple of days before the rent is actually due to account for any mail or bank hold ups. If you know that you might be experiencing financial difficulties, let your property manager know. They will often work with you and let you pay a little later and not charge you a late fee. 

3.  Be realistic about maintenance requests

Property managers can have multiple Chico rental properties they oversee, which means that they have multiple maintenance requests coming in. If it’s something small and easy that you can do yourself – like changing a light bulb or replacing the batteries in the smoke detector – go ahead and do it yourself.

If it’s a non-emergency request like a leaky faucet or running toilet, give the property manager a few days to get it fixed. Property managers appreciate being notified of larger issues right away, like electrical problems or broken appliances they are responsible for.

4.  Follow the rules

If you aren’t supposed to have a pet, it's best not to rescue the stray cat that appeared on your doorstep. If you aren’t supposed to paint, then don’t – even though it would match your new couch much better. If you want to make improvements to the Chico rental properties you’re living in, you can try getting the property manager's permission first. Often times they will make exceptions. For example, maybe you have a little bundle of joy on the way and you’d like to have the carpet replaced once they arrive since they’ll be crawling around soon.

5.  Don’t give others reason to complain

Be respectful and courteous to the neighbors living around you. This means keeping noise levels to a minimum, keeping a watch out for any suspicious activity, and keeping the rental property clean and clear of garbage and debris. Try tactfully addressing any problems you have with your neighbors before getting the property manager involved. They don’t want to be a mediator between two people in Chico rental properties arguing about the leaves that fell on their side of the lawn, or other petty offenses. Most issues can probably be resolved without the property manager.

6.  Respect your home

Last but not least, keep your home in good shape. Sure, Chico rental properties always experience some general wear and tear, clutter and need that weekly cleaning day. If you have pets, be aware of the odor they might cause and any chewing or scratching they could potentially do. Any major damage that occurs should be reported to the property manager right away. The more attention you focus on treating the rental like it’s truly your own, the more of your security deposit you’re likely to get back when you move out.

It’s fairly simple and straightforward. Follow the above 6 steps and you are well on your way to being your property manager's favorite renter of all. Take your "best renter" up a notch and get Renter's Insurance for your rental property, that way your property manager doesn't have to worry with you thinking that any damage or stolen property is their responsibility! 

We're All About Community

When you rent a Hignell Rentals property, it's not just about having a roof over your head. We want renter's lives to be enriched and for everyone to have the opportunity for good community. That's why we have Creating Caring Communities teams at participating apartment complexes. Learn more about Creating Caring Communities here.