Hi, there! Joe White here from Grow Property Management, your trusted property management company in Philadelphia.
In discussions among property management company owners, there's a notable debate about whether property owners should have unrestricted access to their properties, particularly when they're rented out to tenants. At Grow Property Management Company, we've adopted a strict policy against allowing property owners to visit while the property is occupied. This policy is rooted in several considerations, including liability concerns, tenant privacy, and respecting the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment of the premises.
One primary concern is the potential liability that property owners might inadvertently incur, especially regarding fair housing violations. Many property owners may not be aware of the nuances of fair housing laws, and allowing them to visit the property unsupervised could expose both them and the property management company to legal risks. By restricting access, we aim to protect both the property owner and the tenant from potential legal complications.
Moreover, allowing property owners to visit while the property is occupied can disrupt the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment. Tenants pay rent in exchange for the use and enjoyment of the property, and unannounced visits from the property owner can intrude upon their privacy and disrupt their daily lives. As property managers, it's essential for us to uphold the tenant's rights and ensure that their living experience is not compromised.
Drawing from my personal experience as a property owner whose properties are managed Grow Property Management; I understand the importance of respecting tenant privacy and maintaining a professional distance. Even though we have a vested interest in the condition of the properties, we refrain from making unscheduled visits or inspections while they're occupied. Instead, I rely on scheduled inspections conducted with the tenant's consent to assess the property's condition.
However, it's essential to recognize that different property management companies may have varying policies regarding owner access. While Grow Property Management Company prioritizes tenant privacy and legal compliance, others may offer more flexibility to property owners who wish to visit their properties regularly. It's crucial for property owners to discuss their preferences and expectations regarding property access with their chosen management company before entering into a contract.
For property owners who desire more frequent access to their properties, some management companies may accommodate this request but may charge a fee for accompanying the owner during visits. This fee reflects the additional time and effort required on the part of the property manager to ensure that the visit is conducted in compliance with legal requirements and does not infringe upon the tenant's rights.
Ultimately, the decision regarding owner access to rental properties should be made with careful consideration of legal obligations, tenant rights, and the preferences of both the property owner and the management company. Open communication between property owners and management companies is key to ensuring that expectations are aligned and that the best interests of all parties involved are upheld.
While some property management companies may permit property owners to visit their properties freely, others, like Grow Property Management, prioritize tenant privacy and legal compliance by restricting access. Property owners should discuss their preferences regarding property access with their chosen management company before entering into a contract to ensure that their expectations are met. As always, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and respecting tenant rights is paramount in the management of rental properties.
As always, happy investing!
