According to Brock’s website, these are the top ten tips for becoming a successful landlord to Brock University students.

Maintain good communication with tenant(s)

• don’t be afraid to discuss concerns or issues with your tenants and encourage them to do the same with you
• discussing issues early and directly will go a long way in strengthening the landlord/tenant relations.
• communication is particularly important where the student is from another country, or if this is the first time he or she is away from home

Be fair and reasonable

• keep the rent and any other costs at a reasonable rate - give tenants a reason for any changes you make
• student hours can be chaotic so be understandable and make sure you keep lines of communication open
• for many students it is their first time in rented accommodation so spell out in fine detail what is expected and allowed
• students are often challenged financially and are cost and value conscious
• always discuss a problem with the student before getting in touch with their parents

Be clear with expectations

• outline expectations at the beginning of the relationship-who does what and when?
• who will pay the utilities, take out the garbage, provide garbage bags/cans, mow the lawn, provide lawn mower, do the cleaning
• when is the rent expected, is an appropriate time to reach the tenant/landlord
• what is acceptable behaviour, especially if sharing your home
• show respect for your tenants

Have written and signed agreements

• this provides protection for both parties
• tenants and landlords are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act
• boarders are governed by contract law - very important to have a written contract
• there is no guarantee if there is no contract

Keep accommodations well maintained

• well maintained properties will advertise themselves
• expect there to be repairs/maintenance/damage and budget for it
• tour the premises at least once during the lease term

Be a visible landlord

• keeps you up-to-date regarding repairs needed
• can make an exterior inspection at any time but must give written notice of interior inspections
• keeps the neighbours happy if you are around regularly

Stay informed about laws/by-laws/codes

• are you governed by RTA or contract law
• Fire Code
• Building Code
• Health Code
• these codes vary from municipality to municipality

Be positive

• it should be possible to work out problems if you take a positive attitude
• being a landlord to students can be both profitable and enjoyable
• how you approach being a landlord will shape your overall experience
• Brad Clarke, the Off-Campus Housing Officer at Brock can help resolve problems - 905-688-5550, Ext. 4059

Help tenants be good neighbours

• introduce your tenants to the neighbours when they move in
• ensure that the neighbours know how to contact the landlord
• discuss expectations with tenants and also with neighbours

Know your purpose-what is your reason for being a landlord?

• to earn an income?
• for a tax write-off?
• to plan for retirement (or to supplement retirement income)?
• to provide a hobby?
• to provide housing for a post-secondary school student?
• to fill an inherited property?