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The Art of Landlord-Tenant Communication: A Comprehensive Guide

A property manager talks on the phone while showing a house.Communication is necessary for building a strong relationship between landlords and tenants because it outlines duties and obligations. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and conflicts while cultivating an atmosphere of transparency, trust, and respect. This not only enhances the tenant experience but also develops the relationship between the parties involved. As a landlord or property manager, you can employ these typical communication methods:

  • In-Person Communication: Face-to-face interactions promote open communication by allowing immediate queries and answers, particularly with complex lease agreements and rental concerns. When scheduling meetings or property visits, be flexible with regard to the tenant’s schedule. For in-person lease signings, make sure all paperwork is prepared earlier and that both parties understand the agreement’s terms.
  • Phone Communication: The phone is a perfect tool for landlords and tenants to interact effectively. Landlords should avoid calling early morning or late at night and instead schedule calls during regular business hours, keeping them brief and concentrated.
  • Email Communication: Email is an efficient way for landlords to communicate with tenants, sending vital announcements and updates right away. To confirm effective communication, landlords should employ proper email addresses, clear subject lines, and maintain a professional tone. For improved readability, structure emails with brief paragraphs, bullet points, and headings, and keep copies of all sent emails for record-keeping.
  • Text Messaging: Text messaging is a popular form of communication due to its convenience and quick response time. However, it’s critical to utilize it sensibly and maintain professionalism. Landlords can effectively communicate important information, such as assessments and rent notifications, through texting, but it’s vital to avoid overusing it or calling tenants outside business hours to keep an image of professionalism.
    • Landlords must maintain professionalism in text communications by being clear, concise, and well-mannered. It’s imperative to utilize correct grammar and prevent slang. Sensitive issues like rent increases or eviction notices should be discussed in person or via email for more detailed conversations.
  • Written Notices: To confirm compliance with legal requirements, landlords and tenants should deliver clear and formal written notices for many circumstances, such as lease renewals or terminations. When composing written communications, landlords ought to incorporate the following information:
    • The date the notice is being issued.
    • The name and address of the tenant.
    • The reason for the notice (lease renewal, termination, etc.)
    • The date the lease will expire or terminate.
    • Specific instructions or requirements for the tenant to follow if needed.
    • Contact information for the landlord in case the tenant has any questions or concerns.

Landlords and tenants must retain copies of all written notices for their documentation. Also, landlords should verify that the terminology they use complies with all applicable laws and rules and that they are not discriminatory.

Alternate Communication Methods for Landlords

  1. Online Portals and Apps
  2. Social Media and Community Groups
  3. Maintenance and Repair Requests
  4. Emergency Communication

Landlords can communicate with tenants through various methods, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Landlords should choose communication methods appropriate for their tastes and their tenants’ needs. Some tenants might like email or text for convenience, while others might choose in-person meetings or phone calls.

Hiring a reputable property management company, such as Real Property Management Keystone, simplifies your life while also improving your tenants’ experience. To relieve stress from managing your property in Coraopolis or in the vicinity, contact us online or call 412-385-2300 right away. Let us work together to make our living environment for everyone.

Originally Published on November 3, 2023

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