Ask The Cribline: How to approach a tenant

Dear Eric,

 I need to get some plaster replaced in the closet of my rental, but it will take 4-5 days of drying and curing. How would you suggest approaching my tenant to get his OK for getting work done? I only have the one closet in the place, so nowhere for him to put his stuff. I need to get the repair done next week to have it finished for a July 1 occupancy. My lease doesn’t address such situations. I could wait until he moves out on the 30th, but it would delay occupancy by a week, which I’m guessing would impact rental. Thanks.  J


Dear J,

The best advice is to simply ask the tenant.  Assuming you have a contractor lined up, pick a date, and inform your tenant.

It will be easier to get a tenant to cooperate if you have a plan in place.

Remember, it’s beneficial for both a landlord and a tenant to work together.

DC is a small town, and tenants often need references for future living arrangements. It’s in his best interest to work with you and vice versa.

Let us know how it goes.

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