Newbie needs advice on property management

[Gerry Brown]

Hi everyone

We entered RE investment because of this forum.

Just purchased a first rental property and feeling nervous.

On our first day of being newbie landlord, one current tenant called and said “ it is too hot in the units, can you add a screen door to door so that I can open door to cool it down” and then “can you install AC in the unit? I can’t believe we don’t have AC here”

By law, I think I am not required to install AC. How do I respond? I said I don’t plan to install AC. If she wants to pay for an AC unit, that is no problem. Right?

Anything I need to know about tenant installing AC?

Any advise is appreciated

[Nathan Gesner]

Just because someone complaints doesn't mean their complaint is legitimate.

"Dear Tenant, 

I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing this but we do not provide air conditioning with the rental. You are welcome to purchase a window unit or portable A/C at your own expense."

You can prevent a lot of this by including a short disclaimer clause in your lease that essentially says you've given them the opportunity to inspect the rental and ensure it meets their needs. Unless agreed to in writing prior to occupancy, Landlord is under no obligation to make improvements to rental, to include painting, flooring, additional cleaning, etc.