Rentwise! Chapter Three -- Your Renter File

A WISE TENANT KEEPS COPIES!

To a landlord, renting is "strictly business." To expect anything else would be naive. So the wise renter should get serious too! Handle every aspect of renting—from the very beginning to the very end—in a business-like fashion.

YOUR RENTAL FILE
When disputes arise—and you need to prove a point—there's no substitute for good documentation. Any agreements and important communication between landlord and tenant should be in writing with a copy for your file.

What's typically found in a Renter File?

• This document or URL (after you've read it)
• A copy of your signed lease
• Receipt for your security deposit
• Renter's insurance policy
• Rent receipts or canceled checks
• Rules & Regulations. Don't put this away until you go over everything with the kids and post a copy in their room. The rules are an enforceable part of your agreement.
• List of damages and conditions existing when you moved in (signed by the landlord!)
• Copies of requests for repairs.
• Estimates and receipts for repairs you make.
• Memos, warnings and other communication from management.
• Signed agreements between you and the landlord, even on small matters such as permission to paint or put up wallpaper, or to share a particular expense, like miniblinds. If you trade labor for rent, put it in writing and include time frames.
• Utility bills that show drastic or unexplainable change.
• Notes on conversations/complaints with housing agencies.
• Diary of events concerning an on-going problem such as harassment, noisy neighbors, discriminatory treatment, drug dealing in neighborhood, etc. Video and audio tapes will help support your case should it end up in court.
• Written notice (30 days) that you intend to leave the unit when your lease is up.
• Request for return of your deposit to your NEW address.
• Report on final inspection for damage (signed).
• Recommendation from landlord.

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