Landlords have roles to play in ensuring their tenants are living in safe, healthy environments. However, not all of them have the best interest of their tenants in mind. Some landlords use their position to be unscrupulous and scam their tenants. They impose rules that are not necessary or reasonable, or they may not take care of their property in the way they should. If you are worried that your landlord is up to no good, watch out for these five signs!
They Have Rules That Benefits Only Themselves
Renting a house is a transaction: you get a roof over your head and, in exchange, the landlord earns a monthly fee. However, sometimes landlords go too far and create rules that only benefit them. For example, they may require you to sign a contract that forbids you from having guests over, or they may make it difficult for you to get your security deposit back.
Before signing any contract, have a lawyer look it over to make sure that you are not being taken advantage of. Moreover, put all agreements into writing. This will protect you in case your landlord tries to go back on their word.
The Property Is Not Well-Maintained
One of the most important duties of a landlord is to maintain their property in a state of good repair. This means fixing any broken fixtures, cleaning the property on a regular basis, and ensuring that all appliances are in working order. If your landlord is not doing these things, then it is likely that they are not taking their responsibilities seriously.
They Are Always Asking for Money
It’s not uncommon for landlords to request money from their tenants on a monthly or yearly basis. However, if your landlord is constantly asking for more money than what is necessary, they are trying to take advantage of you.
You shouldn’t be paying more money than what is required for rent and utilities. All fees should have been negotiated and agreed upon before you signed the lease.
If your landlord is asking for more, ask them why. If they can’t provide a reasonable explanation, then you should consider finding a new place to live.
You Feel Unsafe in Your Home
If you feel unsafe in your home, even if it’s just a feeling, then it is important to take action and figure out what is going on. Your landlord should be doing everything in their power to make you feel safe, and if they aren’t then there may be something wrong.
For example, if a break-in has occurred in any nearby unit, your landlord should be increased security measures to ensure that it doesn’t happen to you. If they are not doing this, then they may not be taking your safety seriously.
The landlord should also intervene if one of the tenants is harassing you. A home, even if it’s a rental space, should be a safe place for you to be.
Sometimes, the landlord is the threat. There are landlords who threaten their tenants with eviction if they do not comply with their unreasonable demands. If you are a victim of landlord intimidation, it is important to get help from your local community organizations or the government.
You can also file a complaint with your state’s department of consumer affairs. They will be able to help you protect your rights as a tenant and get the justice you deserve.
When it comes to your landlord, always be vigilant and watch out for any warning signs that they may be up to no good.
If any of these things are happening to you, it’s important to take action and protect yourself. Get legal advice or phone the police.
Their Documentations are Incomplete
Landlords are supposed to provide their tenants with a number of documents, such as a lease agreement and an inventory list. In the United Kingdom, rental spaces have to undergo regular Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) inspection to ensure that the property is up to standard and there is little risk of fires.
If these documents are incomplete or inaccurate, then it should be a red flag.
Moreover, if your landlord is not providing you with the proper documentation, they may be trying to scam you. Always ask for copies of all important documents and compare them to what your landlord is telling you. If there are any discrepancies, speak to a lawyer immediately.
There should be trust established between landlords and tenants to create a harmonious living arrangement. If you, as a renter, notice any of these red flags, it’s better for your own safety and mental well-being to look for another place to stay.
