Property Manager Rented My Property W/o Me Reviewing the Lease

[Sunny D.]

The lease for 2015 was for three tenants.  The tenants wanted to renew for 2016, though needed to find a new roommate since one of them was moving out.  When I finally got the lease; it had been signed.   The lease covered four tenants -- I had no previous knowledge; the rent and deposits stayed the same.

I asked my property manager what happened.  He said that he thought that I had given him the authority to handle the renewal, and that three tenants or four tenants are of the same effect. 

Suggestions on what I may do here?  I am far away from where the property is, and won't be able to get back to the area until summer next year.  Specific questions:

1. Can I still ask for a rental/deposit increase while the lease had been signed?

2. Can I ask the property manager to cover the increases?

3. Should I bring this to the attention of the property manager's supervisor?  The company has certain good reputation in the area.  

Thank you for your help.  Am a novice in the rental business.  Best wishes.  

[Deanna McCormick]

Your rather behind on this one.

If lease has been signed by all parties and by your property manager and delivered then your committed to those lease terms, it's a binding contract.

The lack of communication between the property manager and you is the concern. Have you been apprised of any maintenance issues, or property condition within the last year?

I don't believe the property manager would be responsible for any rental loss increases unless he was instructed to change renewal price,if you didn't advise him you wanted to raise the rents, regarding your contract with the agency it should spell out what you are both required to do at renewal time. so get that addressed and make changes for the future so your informed. 

I'd get a 3rd party - friend to do a drive by and give you some updated photo's of exterior of property