Information binder provided to Tenants?

Information binder provided to Tenants?

Investor · Buffalo, NY · Member since 2019 · 164 posts · 114 votes

Hi fellow landlords,

First post over on this side of the forum, so allow me to introduce myself quickly. We own 10 units in Buffalo, NY and are growing aggressively through rehabs and the occasional "opportunity flip", while working full time careers and raising a young family. Our main focus has been small multi-family, and continuing to play a small role in the resurgence of these historically down-trodden neighborhoods.  

I've been reading BT's book on landlording, and was curious as to how many of you provide your tenants with a packet or binder that includes your (or your companies) information, house rules, copy of the lease, etc etc. I can certainly see how this could be helpful, but wondering if it is worth the work as how many tenants refer to a paper copy of anything?!

If you do this, do you mind sharing what you provide, how you provide it? My thought would to also include all the manuals for appliances, thermostat, water heating re-lighting instruction, and possibly even copies of the move-in property condition photos. Too much? Thoughts?

Thanks for your constructive comments. I tend to overthink, but then again, it's served me well so far. 

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  • Nathan GesnerBusiness Member
    Moderator
    Real Estate Broker · Cody, WY · Member since 2010 · 28k+ posts · 41k+ votes
    6y

    A binder is too much. 95% of the tenants will never crack the cover.

    What I'm starting to do is provide a single, laminated document with key information. I tape it to the inside of the upper cabinet closest to the refrigerator so it's easy to find for me and the tenant. It includes:

    • Office contact information
    • How to report maintenance 
    • How to report maintenance after-hours
    • Emergency numbers (9-1-1, gas leak, etc.)
    • Location and size of air filter, water filter, etc.
    • Location of water shutoff
    • Location of gas shutoff
    • Location of Breaker Box
    • Location of sprinkler controller
    • Any unique instructions for the property (how to use jetted tub, how to prime sprinkler pump, etc.)

    I provide additional information on my website or Tenant portal for those interested in learning more about move-out instructions, how to add/remove a pet, how to terminate a lease early, etc.

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  • Portland, OR · Member since 2019 · 2 posts · 2 votes
    5y

    I was looking at doing something similar with a binder for information on my townhouse.  After doing some research and talking with professionals that have been doing this much longer than me, I think Nathan is correct that the binder is too much.  The single page page document seems to be perfect for what needs to be shared.  I grabbed a few items off his list above as well to add to mine. (Thank you Nathan)

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