Top 9 Tips to Resolve Tenant and Landlord Disputes

Daily, tenants and Landlords can be found disputing increases in rent, security deposit returns, and who’s responsible for repairs. When issues of this sort arise, landlords and tenants should solve the problem themselves. They should not involve lawyers or litigation in the disagreement. There are many options available to resolve the dispute. Below are a few tips that can help both tenants and landlords in resolving their property issues:

• Get acquainted with the law: Most problems arise because either the tenant or landlord is not aware of their state laws. Both need to become acquainted with these laws; this will help them avoid further disputes.
   
• Communicate: When both parties agree to communicate, they can solve their dispute. This is one of the easiest ways to get rid of unwanted disagreements. It’s important to speak out about whatever one feels to have problems addressed in a timely manner.
   
• Meet personally: Talking on phones or through email won’t solve every problem. Sometimes it’s good to meet and discuss things in person. Landlords and tenants should meet in a comfortable setting where both the parties feel safe and secure.
   
• Control your temper: Disputes arise because people are short tempered. They react to a situation very fast and things spiral out of control. Thus, make it a point to control your temper. One should never make a decision in anger. One should stay calm and try to take control of the situation.
   
• Take help from a professional intermediary: There are professional intermediaries who help to resolve disputes between both parties. Tenants and landlords have the option of contacting them. It’s recommended to request this help if a suitable agreement cannot be reached.
   
• Leave it to the lawyers: If the tenant and landlord have lawyers, they can leave the matter to them. They can resolve the dispute before taking it to court. It’s good to make a settlement outside of court instead of getting involved in a long proceeding.
   
• Put everything into writing: It’s crucial for both the tenant and the landlord to put everything into writing. Documentation is an important part of any process; it helps one to solve their disputes legally, if needed. Thus one should keep a file and record all transactions.
   
• Move to the small claim courts: Rental property disputes usually fall under the jurisdiction of small claim courts. These courts are specially designed for such purposes and are cheaper than criminal or civil courts. By moving to the small claim courts, landlords and tenants can save their money and get the dispute resolved faster.
   
• File a lawsuit: If all the above options have failed, than it’s time to file a lawsuit for a civil or criminal court. Before proceeding, one should consider that the attorneys are experienced enough to handle their case. It’s also vital to prepare all the documentation beforehand and provide a copy to the attorney.