Property owners and tenants don’t always see eye to eye. When a dispute arises, it’s best to know how to handle it. This guide will help you find the best way to respond to tenant complaints, resolve tenant disputes, or deal with tenants who break the law.

Landlord-tenant disputes typically revolve around these common issues:

• Rental lease agreements
• Repairs and maintenance concerns
• Tenant rights (right to privacy, anti-discrimination laws, etc.)
• Rent payments
• Eviction

Problems surrounding matters like these can occur at any time, and landlords should have a plan in place to protect their interests. Running a property ownership business requires finding a solution that works for you and your renters. It can be challenging to remain professional during heated disagreements, but doing so is crucial. In addition to benefiting your business, resolving tenant disputes successfully will improve your tenant relationships.

How to Prevent Landlord-Tenant Disputes

Some landlord-tenant disputes are inevitable. However, most situations can be averted before they snowball into larger issues. Both tenants and landlords can take several steps to avoid complicated disputes:

• Practice open communication. Address an issue as soon as it arises, be candid about your concerns, and listen to the other party’s perspective. Try to be respectful and amicable rather than argumentative.
• Know your rights. When landlords agree to retain tenants and tenants sign lease agreements, both parties have rights according to federal and state laws.
• Hold onto any related documentation. Let’s say that a tenant falsely claims you made an exception by agreeing to give them an extra week to pay rent. In this case, you’ll want to have proper documentation on hand showing the tenant agreed to a specific rent payment schedule.

Resolving Tenant Disputes

Landlords should be able to communicate and resolve tenant disputes without the involvement of third parties. However, if it’s not possible to come to a mutual agreement, outside assistance may be necessary. This doesn’t always mean the courts will need to intervene. In order to avoid the legal system, a mediator can step in to help renters and landlords find common ground.

A mediator is not a judge and does not hold authority over tenants or property owners. Their job is to facilitate productive dialogue between both parties and guide them towards a satisfying conclusion. To find mediation services near you, contact your local bar association or research private companies nearby.

What is Small Claims Court?

Small claims court is an option if resolving tenant disputes through discussion or mediation is not possible. However, this isn’t as painful of a process as it sounds. Lawyers aren’t required for small claims cases and court fees are usually minimal. Additionally, the process is designed to be fast and effective.

A small claims court can only hear cases involving financial issues (like a tenant who failed to pay rent. If the disputed amount exceeds $10,000, you will likely need to go one step further and file a lawsuit.

How All County Denver Metro Can Help

All County Denver Metro Property Management is here to help property owners have confidence in the quality of their tenants and the security of their property through knowledgeable and trustworthy property management services. From managing tenant relationships to pricing rent to lease enforcement, we look forward to working with you to see how your investment can be a long-term, stress-free asset. For a complimentary quote or more information about resolving tenant disputes, call us today at (720) 575-6100.