There are so many factors that come into play when you are a landlord. Including but not limited to; background checks, signing leases, inspections, collecting security deposit/rent, keeping up on maintenance, and utilities.
Utilities have been a topic at RPM Elite for some time now. What’s the best way to handle utilities? Do you have them all put in the tenant’s name? Do you pay the utilities and have the tenant reimburse you, or should you charge a flat fee?
There are many routes you can take when it comes to utilities but we’d like to share with you what we have found to be the most effective and efficient at our company.
We’ve run across the problem of some cities not allowing the tenants name to be put on the account. This is usually for water, sewer and trash. So, we charge a flat rate to cover the water, sewer and trash each month. The owner will continue to pay those utilities but they will be reimbursed once the tenant pays that month.
Some owners like to keep track of how much was paid compared to the flat rate. Then at the end of the year, they like to compare if they overpaid or the tenant did. If that has happened, then the owner or tenant will cover the difference.
When it comes to power and gas, we have our tenants put the bills in their name. This has been nice to have the tenants take care of those bills directly.
As we mentioned before, there are countless ways of how you can handle payment of utilities. We are sharing what we have found to work the best for both the owner and tenant while your property is being rented.
Yes, it’s another job to add to your list as a landlord. If you are considering a property management company, look no further… We are here to make your job as a landlord become our job and now you can focus on other things you have to do. We are always here to help!
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