Rental Property is getting a new roof. How do I inform my tenant?

Question

My property just got approved to get new roof. What's best practice with informing my tenant besides, "Heads up the property is getting a new roof." ?

Am I just overthinking this?

Richard F. · Answer

Aloha,

What would YOU want to know if someone was replacing your roof? WHO will be the company that is performing the job? WHAT will they be doing- entire roof tear off and replace, or minor repairs? WHEN- dates of expected project "dependent on weather", with updates the week OF the work, and a daily time frame. WHERE- specific unit, or entire structure? HOW- what precautions does Tenant need to take, removing vehicles from driveway for access/dumpster; removing personal property from perimeter of house to prevent damage; keep kids/pets/onlookers OUT of active work area at all times to prevent injuries.

You also need to be clear with your licensed and insured contractor about cleanup after the job. You do not want your Tenant whining about flat tires because the roofer left nails everywhere.

You really need a standardized template for Tenant communications. Be consistent and thorough. Include the potential for a cost to the Tenant if they fail to meet the schedule or properly prepare and cause a delay for the contractor.

Eric Gerakos · Answer

From my upcoming book, "How to buy houses and stuff"  "If a new roof is needed, find the tenant, point up and mumble in your best surfer dude voice,"Bra, new roof coming." The keys are to sound as dopey as possible and to make sure you stumble away before the tenant can ask any questions."

Nathan Gesner · Answer

Don't make it more complicated than it needs to be. The law requires you to give notice; it does not require you to get permission.

A quick search shows Kentucky requires you to give two days notice before entering the property. I would contact the tenant by phone to discuss and answer questions, then follow up with a text or email so you have proof in writing.

Henry T. · Answer

I tell the tenant we'll be getting a new roof. Expect to see contractors in the yard taking notes. Once I get a proper bid I'll let you know the start date. One day, two at most.

Make sure the heavy delviery truck doesn't crack your cement like they did mine. They denied everything. Took two years(with covid) to get them in court. Slam dunk.

Dawn P. · Answer

Agree with everyone else - just tell them what day so they can move cars and stuff away from the house, and that it will be a bit noisy while they replace the roof in case your tenant works from home or has pets/kids that may be sensitive to noise.

Theresa Harris · Answer

You're overthinking this.  Give them a heads up, make sure you coordinate the days with the tenants as they will need to give the roofers access to the driveway.  Make sure after the roofers are done, you do several walks around the building to pick up nails.

Bob S. · Answer

REALLY~! just tell them it only takes a day, stop overthinking,

Wesley Perry · Answer

Very thoughtful and truly helpful response, Richard. Thank you.

Rental Property is getting a new roof. How do I inform my tenant?

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