Communicating with tenants is a common part of rental property management. However, it’s important that these communications follow both industry best practices and local, state, and federal laws. Here’s a rundown of the most common types of notices you’ll encounter when managing a rental property.
Notice of entry
In most states, you’re required to inform a tenant of your intent to enter the residence. This is typically done when repairs, maintenance, or inspections are needed. You should plan to give at least 24 hours notice.
Notice of power outages, repairs, or renovations
You will need to inform tenants of upcoming outages, repairs, or renovations, such as work being performed on plumbing that will require the water to be shut off. In some cases, this notice will accompany the notice of entry.
Notice of rent increase
Tenants must be notified of any rent increases on the property. You should plan to send these types of notices at least 30 – 60 days in advance of the increase.
Notice of lease renewal
Most lease agreements do not auto-renew, so you must send a notice of renewal when the lease is nearing expiration. Notify your tenant at least 60 days prior to the end of the current lease so they have enough time to give notice should they decide not to renew.
Notice of non-renewal of lease
If you do not want to renew the lease of a current tenant, you must send a letter of non-renewal. You can terminate a periodic lease at any time, provided you give proper notice. This is defined as a “no-cause eviction.”
Notice to cure or quit
If a tenant violates a condition or term of the lease agreement, then you should send a notice stating that the violation must be fixed or the lease will be terminated. Common violations include unapproved subletters, roommates, pets, or renovations.
Notice to pay or quit
If your tenant has failed to pay rent after the grace period has ended, you can send a notice to pay or you will terminate the lease and begin a formal eviction process.
