Harbor Property Management – 2024 | 3 Tips & 3 Reminders for Landlords
Hello Property Owners, this is Scott from Harbor Property Management. Today, I’m sharing three essential property management tips and three important reminders to help you stay ahead of the game, especially with November approaching:
📋 Tip #1: Document, Document, Document!
- Always have your tenants submit maintenance requests in writing—email is a great option for tracking.
- Keep a detailed log of how you address maintenance requests and other tenant interactions. This can be vital in avoiding misunderstandings or defending your actions in legal situations.
- Documenting ensures clear communication, prevents disputes, and is a powerful tool in case you need to present your records in court.
⚖️ Tip #2: Don’t Delay Legal Action
- If a tenant breaches their lease in a serious way, don’t wait to act—address it immediately.
- Contact an eviction attorney or legal professional if needed. Taking swift action protects your property and prevents situations from spiraling out of control.
- Delays in taking action often result in bigger, more expensive problems down the road.
🚫 Tip #3: Avoid Cutting Corners
- Even if a tenant is a friend, family member, or recommended by someone you know, always treat them the same as any other tenant.
- Run background and credit checks on all applicants to ensure they’re qualified—don’t skip this step.
- Cutting corners often leads to costly mistakes and unnecessary complications. Screen everyone fairly, and you’ll save yourself a lot of time and money in the future.
🔒 Reminder #1: Protect Your Property from Trespassers
- If your property is vacant or undergoing maintenance, file a trespass form with your local Sheriff’s Department to protect it from squatters.
- This form allows the Sheriff’s Department to quickly remove trespassers without a drawn-out eviction process.
- Squatters can be tricky, often producing fake leases or utility bills to claim residency, but with the trespass form in place, law enforcement can act fast to protect your property.
💵 Reminder #2: Security Deposit Changes (AB 12)
- As of July 1st, 2024, you can no longer request more than one month’s rent as a security deposit in most cases.
- Exceptions include landlords who own two or fewer properties or four or fewer units, but for most, this new law applies.
- Ensure you’re following the new guidelines to avoid fines or disputes over security deposits.
🏡 Reminder #3: Proposition 33 & Rent Control
- Proposition 33 is a significant vote happening this November. If passed, it would repeal the Costa-Hawkins Act, placing virtually all rental properties, including single-family homes, under rent control.
- This change would affect “mom and pop” landlords, bringing even smaller rental properties under strict regulations.
- Vote “No” on Proposition 33 to protect property owners’ rights and keep flexibility in how you manage your rentals.
Being proactive about property management can save you from a lot of stress and financial strain. If you have any questions or need support managing your properties, reach out to Harbor Property Management. I’m always here to help you navigate these changes and ensure your investments are protected!
Best regards,
Scott
Harbor Property Management