Landlords are individuals responsible for the operation of a rental property. Landlords do occasionally own large multi-unit properties but most commonly manage smaller single, double or triple-occupancy properties. Landlords are distinctly different than property management companies.
1. Landlords own the property
Landlords are different from property management companies as they are an individual who owns the property — not a company, board or any other group of people. This dynamic can affect the way that tenants interact with their landlord. Landlords may not be equipped with the same tools as a large company like online payment or formal office hours.
2. Landlords have responsibilities
Landlords do have responsibilities beyond just cashing your rent check each month. Depending on state laws, many maintenance issues must be handled by your landlord. Often, functioning hot water, air conditioning and heating are all legally required of a landlord. It’s a good idea to take any repair requests to your landlord regardless because many will fix a wide range of issues in their rentals. Never DIY a project without speaking to your landlord first.
3. Renters don’t always have a landlord
Just because you’re a renter, doesn’t mean you have a landlord. There are many other entities that are responsible for overseeing rental units. Many apartments are managed by property management companies where you communicate directly with office staff or managers as opposed to the actual owner of your property.
It’s important that you keep your landlord on your good side
There are certainly pros and cons to renting a unit overseen by a landlord. If you do find yourself renting from a landlord, it’s important that you keep them on your good side. Landlords can be your best friend or your worst enemy, it just depends on what you make of it. Follow the rules of your lease, pay on time and always be direct.
