arranging time with tenant for routine inspection

[Paul Z.]

Hi everyone.

In my jurisdiction, landlords can enter a rental unit with a 24-hour written notice. I still try to do better than that, by asking tenants for a time that works best for them. When I asked a tenant this recently, he said he has family visiting from out of town, and "will get back to me", and gave no timeline for me to work with. I feel unsettling and not sure how to proceed. How would you handle this situation? And would you be concerned that tenants may not be happy if you visit with appropriate notice but on a day they do not like?

Cheers,

Paul

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Paul Z.:

This is a common problem. The law requires you to give notice: it does not require you to get permission.

The tenant has family in town? That's his problem. Tell him to take his family out to dinner for a couple hours so you can do your inspection. You should make an effort to respect their schedule, but they should make an effort to respect yours. After all, it's your property and you have a legal right.

I would call them back and set a hard date. If family is only in town for a week, I would probably set an appointment for after they leave. If longer than a week, I would tell the Tenant that your schedule is full and you need to do it this week.