Duplex/tenant disputes! Do you intervene or not?

Question

I have been a landlord for the last 6 months. Aside from watching YouTube videos and networking I did not have any prior experience in real estate. I chose to become a real estate investor/landlord because all processes pertaining to owning real estate has been interesting to me and I believe it is a great road to take for building generational wealth. Im very direct & straightforward which I believe are 2 of the many qualities landlords should possess.

With that being side, I purchased a duplex unit and wanted advice in reference to neighbor disputes. When/if your tenant(s) have minor/major disputes, is it my “job” as a landlord to get in the middle of it? If so, at what point?

I’ve already had to let one tenant go mainly because of neighbor difference. I would like a better viewpoint before allowing a new tenant to sign a lease. All advice is welcomed!

Luke Carl · Answer

I agree with @Dennis M. and I’m glad to hear his take because that’s how I handle things. Unless it’s an issue with the property I don’t reply to to messages. Such as “the neighbor was up late” “the neighbor makes too much noise” “the neighbor is smoking weed” I have a handful of C to C- Duplexes.

“No money mo problems” - Wayne Gretzky/Notorious BIG/Michael Scott.

“No money mo problems” - Wayne Gretzky/Notorious BIG/Michael Scott.

Tanner Marsey · Answer

You provide a clean, safe livable structure. Babysitting is not included in the price of rent.

James Wise · Answer

No it's not your job to get involved. If there is a legal issue tell them to contact the police. Otherwise let them know that rent is due on the 1st and to give you a call if there is an issue with the heating, electrical or plumbing systems.

Dennis M. · Answer

Don’t get involved unless it’s going to cost you serious money or the asset is in jeopardy . This is very common in multi family especially c or d class . Let them duke it out . Don’t get involved . If somebody feels threatened advise them to call the police . Don’t make the mistake of picking sides or intervening into their personal lives . You just rent out of the building , your not the community counselor or township supervisor , remember that or you’ll be sorry !

Roni E. · Answer

Congrats on being a landlord. Hope you were able to escape the flood safely in Houston. As the landlord/Property Manager you need to control the property, situations, address issues and create an enjoyable tenant experience. By doing so you make tenants happy, make sure rent is paid, and catch issues before they escalate. I assume all of these disputes deal the property and not personal. You can even draft up some property guidelines that you can mail to all the tenants to follow. See below is somewhat funny but shows what the property manager has to deal with and control.

Mya Love · Answer

@James Wise That’s exactly what I did. Thank you!

Ola Dantis · Answer

@Mya Love We had issues with the tenant complaining about the tenant above and I sent a text telling the tenant and that was that. Our properties in Class A areas, so I haven't received any requests regarding noise since then.

We only respond to issues with the property and never get involved with any drama.

James Wise · Answer

Well done Mya.

Mya Love · Answer

@Tanner Marsey It seems as if the tenant wanted a mother or someone to coddle her. And that’s not my job, so thank you for sharing! Much appreciated.

Mya Love · Answer

Well spoken lol @Lucas Carl Thanks!

Duplex/tenant disputes! Do you intervene or not?

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