Do I charge tenant for installing hand railing for stairs?

Question

Since I am just starting out with owning rental properties, I wanted to hear what experienced landlords would do in this situation.

An older resident asked me to install handrailing outside the front door on the stairs. I figured this would be a reasonable accommodation and something that the resident would appreciate. Since I am not handy and am limited on time, I hired a handyman service to take care of the project.

It ended up costing quite a bit more than I initially thought. So I was curious if I should just eat the cost and pay for the entire amount or if I would be able to charge back some of the cost to the tenant?

Bjorn Ahlblad · Answer

I would not charge the tenant. If they fell on the stairs it could cost you a lot more.

Chris Herrera · Answer

@Caleb Smith don’t try to nickel and dime tenants especially when it comes to safety. It helped your building overall so just absorb the cost so you don’t cause any issues

Ed O. · Answer

If more than two steps, code calls for it. It would be wise to anticipate this need on the next one. I would not ask for payment on this. How did it overrun? Handrails are generally straight forward.....

Charles D Cruz · Answer

Wouldn't charge but curious on how much you paid?

Caleb Smith · Answer

Got it! Thank you everybody for taking the time to respond to my question and helping me out!

Theresa Harris · Answer

Most of the time you need a railing by the stairs, so I'd just pay for it. As other said, next time get an estimate up front so if the cost is high (look to see if it is because of material costs or labour) you can get a second quote.

Bruce Woodruff · Answer

I would happily pay for it...you're doing the right thing and you're making a friend...

Andrew S. · Answer

Next time research how to do it, estimate the time for someone without experience and with experience. You'll probably get a better estimate then. In general, everything costs more and takes longer :)

Do I charge tenant for installing hand railing for stairs?

Do I charge tenant for installing hand railing for stairs?

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