Checklist: Before You Rent Out Your Property
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
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There are many things to think about before you start renting out your property. You should consult your accountant about the many financial and tax implications. It would be a good idea to research whether your city or county has a department that governs landlord-tenant relations. Involving your attorney in your new venture is also a good idea. It is a smart property owner who finds out in advance what laws apply to rental properties. In addition, it is a good idea to take a few minutes and think about how your rental property will affect the neighbors-both inside the building and in the neighborhood-particularly if you won't be living nearby. The following checklist should help you think about how to prevent conflicts before they arise.
| Yes/no | |
| ___ | The lease designates which party is responsible for mowing the lawn, raking leaves, and otherwise maintaining the yard. |
| ___ | The lease designates which party is responsible for shoveling snow and sanding/salting icy steps and walks. |
| ___ | Tenants have agreed to abide by local laws regarding noise, nuisance, and quiet enjoyment of surrounding property. |
| ___ | Tenants have agreed to abide by all other laws, including criminal laws prohibiting illegal behavior. |
| ___ | The lease states the maximum number of people allowed to live in the rental property. |
| ___ | Landlord has prohibited tenants from keeping junk, such as broken-down cars, on the property. |
| ___ | Landlord has installed a bike stand for the tenants' use. |
| ___ | The rental property has sufficient designated space for parking, and tenants know not to park in neighboring lots. |
| ___ | Tenants have agreed to abide by street parking regulations, such as maximum time allotted for parking and regulations governing plowing or emergency clearance. |
| ___ | Tenants have been reminded to pick up after their dogs and not to allow dogs or cats in neighboring yards. |
| ___ | The lease prohibits tenants from operating a business on the premises, especially if the business would bring customers to the property. |
| ___ | Soliciting on the property is prohibited. |
| ___ | Illegal activity on the property is prohibited. |
| ___ | Loitering on the property is prohibited. |
| ___ | Tenant has obtained the necessary moving day permits or authorization, such as a permit for a moving truck. |
| ___ | Landlord has made arrangements for workers to have access to the property when necessary, and the post office letter carrier has a key to the property. |
| ___ | Landlord has installed a security system and good outdoor lighting. |
Next Steps
Contact a qualified real estate attorney to help you navigate any landlord-tenant issues.