When it comes to running a commercial property, it’s important to know who takes care of maintenance issues as they arise. What things is the landlord accountable for and what things fall on the renter?
These types of decisions should be made before the property is ever rented out. You want to specify responsibilities in the lease and go over the lease with the tenant so there is a complete understanding. You can include this information in the maintenance and repair clause of your lease.
Who you hold responsible for certain maintenance issues has a lot to do with the condition of the property. For example, if your commercial building is in great shape and thoroughly maintained, you can let the tenant handle upkeep, because there are bound to be fewer repairs. However, if the property is old and has some kinks to work out, you should be willing to handle maintenance in order to keep your tenant satisfied.
Regardless of which responsibilities you or your tenant take on, you need to lay it all out in the lease. The more clarity the better. For example, you may want your tenant to shoulder the responsibility of repairs to the carpet or the lighting. You may also require that they take care of any needed repairs to the wall coverings or fixtures. Basically, anything that has to do with the nonstructural characteristics of the building. As the landlord, you will probably take on the responsibility for any items that are structural. That could include things like roofing and foundational maintenance issues.
Another thing you need to consider in the maintenance and repair clause is what your tenant can’t do. You want to make sure you take time to write out exactly what your tenant is not allowed to do to the property. For example: removing wall fixtures or entire walls. You may also want to mention items that have to do with daily maintenance, like putting out the trash for collection each week, or regularly sweeping.
Keeping a property properly maintained is not just good for the tenant, it’s also good for your investment. When small things are taken care of quickly and completely, you can potentially avoid bigger issues from arising. And a well-maintained property can help you retain tenants as well as find new ones.
If you’d like help with your commercial property, please reach out to us at PMI: . We can make sure your lease covers every important detail. We can also help keep your property maintained.
