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Backyard Additions: Who to Call When Houston Tenants Go Rogue

Houston Rental Property with a Firepit Installed in the BackyardRenters of single-family rental homes want to enjoy their pleasant home with the company of their family and friends all year round. The spaces outdoors are important for the tenants, and some of them may want to put their stamp on it by adding things to the yard. For them, they want to enjoy the Houston rental home the way they want to.

Quite similar to the home’s interior, placing temporary decor and beautifying touches is the best way for tenants to change things up a bit. Items such as patio furniture, potted plants or trees, and so on are both functional and in compliance with the terms of the lease.

The predicament is that not all tenants can reign themselves in. There are some that aren’t content with adding throw pillows to the outdoor space. There are some tenants that may want to add something prohibited, like a firepit. Even the small, freestanding firepits available at most home improvement stores present a serious risk, and many cities and counties have specific regulations regarding where and when they can be used.

Tenants may want permanent changes done to the place, such as installing an awning or in-ground fire pit, adding a new path or walkway, or installing a new fence, pond, trees, bushes or perhaps even a shed or gazebo. They may not think much about the difference between adding a freestanding barbecue grill to the patio and building one in the yard. For this reason, tenants must be given clear instruction as to what they can and cannot add to their yard. Together with that, the lease agreement should clearly show what the consequences are of making unauthorized changes and additions.

However, even though you’ve placed all the safeguards, the tenant still goes on and makes changes to the yard without asking permission. When this happens, you’ll need to take decisive and appropriate action. One way to make sure your renters follow the stipulations of the lease is to hire Real Property Management Prestige. We make sure to explain all of the do’s and don’ts of home improvement projects to your tenants and perform regular property evaluations. By doing this, you are assured that they are complying with the lease. In the event of a violation, we will take care of it. We will take the necessary action and work closely with your renters to get to the best possible solution. Do you have any questions you want to be answered? Feel free to contact us online or by phone at 281-532-5455.

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