Renter or Landlord? 4 Duties of the Apartment Owner

When it comes to the responsibilities between landlord and renter, there is no debate that the landlord needs to keep the tenant in an apartment that is in good repair. The apartment owner has many responsibilities, as well.

1. Paying Rent
The rent must be paid on time with very little exception. The rent can be monthly, weekly or bi-weekly. The tenant and landlord will decide on the frequency of the payments, but once it’s agreed upon, the rent must be on time. Some landlords will allow some leniency in time of trouble if the landlord and renter agree, but the renter can’t assume that the landlord will allow the rent to be late.

2. Follow the Lease Agreements
Once a renter signs a lease, he or she is bound by the agreements contained within it. If the landlord doesn’t allow pets, the renter must not get a dog or a cat. It doesn’t matter how small the animal is. Leases are usually for one year unless stated otherwise. The renter must live in the apartment for the length of the lease unless there’s a problem from the landlord.

3. Don’t Disturb Other Renters
Each tenant is supposed to behave reasonably when it comes to other occupants of the building. Loud music, screaming or banging around are considered bad behavior. It can be a cause for the landlord to evict the renter. Other tenants have the right to expect a peaceful environment, and the landlord can enforce that expectation of peace.

4. Don’t Destroy Property
Renters do not own their apartments. They must behave responsibly towards the property. While the landlord is responsible for any repairs to toilets, showers or kitchen sinks, the tenant is responsible for keeping the apartment in good repair, as well.

These are the expectations and duties of the apartment owner. They should be followed or the landlord will have the right to evict the tenant.

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