Page 12 - The Ultimate Lanlord Guide_Neat
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The Tenant Must:
Dispose of garbage and waste in a safe and clean manner (per municipal services and
containers / bins provided)
Maintain the property in a clean tidy and safe state
Use all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, and other
facilities and appliances in a reasonable manner
Refrain from intentionally or negligently damaging the property or common property.
Intentional and negligent damage is for the tenant’s account.
Maintain, replace or repair electrical globes, fittings and switches as well as being liable
for all water-borne taps, stoves, locks, handles and windows.
Maintain and keep the garden neat and tidy (if applicable)
Maintain the swimming pool, including pumps, hoses and accessories, subject to fair
wear and tear. (if applicable)
BE AWARE: specify any other specific liability or tenant responsibility in the lease. For
example the replacement of pool filter sand every 12 months.
Despite all of the above extracted from the laws governing rentals in South Africa, you as
landlord should strive to cultivate a mutually beneficial and rewarding relationship with your
tenant. Seek solutions to difficult issues and be prepared to always act and respond in a fair
and reasonable matter. Take control of the relationship, don’t allow yourself to be bullied,
but don’t be a bully either.
RENEWAL OF THE LEASE
As the end of the initial term of the lease approaches, you as landlord have the option of
renewing the lease or terminating the lease at the end of the initial period. Keep in mind
that it is usually always worth renewing a lease with a good tenant who pays their rent on
time and looks after your property than starting the search from scratch. However, if your
tenant has been less than ideal and is hanging on and always walking the thin line or right
and wrong, constantly paying late and not looking after your property, this is your ideal
change to give them the boot!
Etchells and Young Property Brokers P A G E 1 1
