Effective communication is key in any landlord-tenant relationship. A harmonious interaction between property management teams and tenants can contribute significantly to a positive living experience. But sometimes management can say a few things that can strain the tenant and manager relationship. So, to maintain a healthy relationship with the tenants there are certain phrases and expressions that management teams should avoid.
In this blog post, we’ll explore five things that management teams should never say to tenants, and discuss the effects of saying these words.
5 things Management Team Should Not Say:
- “It’s not our problem”:
A management team’s flat rejection of a tenant’s complaints is one of the worst things they can say to them for example noise complaints, new sublet complaints, harassment, etc. Management should always be empathetic and prepared to help, even if the problem has nothing to do with the property. Managers should collaborate with tenants to develop answers or point them in the direction of the right resources rather than avoiding accountability.
- “You signed the lease, deal with it”:
The use of this phrase can give tenants the impression that they are not being heard or taken seriously, even though a lease agreement is a legally binding contract that details the terms and circumstances of the renting arrangement. Management teams ought to make an effort to resolve issues within the parameters of the lease and, if required, seek to reach a mutually agreeable compromise.
- “We’ve always done it this way”:
Tenants may become frustrated when they encounter resistance to change or improvement, particularly if their recommendations or worries are met with this response. A competent management staff should be receptive to criticism and always look for methods to improve the quality of life for tenants. Property managers may increase loyalty and trust by being proactive.
- “You’re lucky to have this place”:
Making tenants feel fortunate to be renting a property can create a power dynamic that is detrimental to the landlord-tenant relationship. Instead, management teams should focus on providing value and ensuring that the property meets or exceeds the expectations outlined in the lease agreement. A positive and respectful approach fosters a more collaborative and mutually beneficial environment.
- “We can enter your unit whenever we want”:
Respecting tenant privacy is paramount. Informing tenants that management has the right to enter their unit at any time without proper notice can create anxiety and discomfort. While there are legal circumstances under which entry may be necessary (such as emergencies or required maintenance), management teams should always communicate and adhere to local laws regarding notice periods.
Impacts of Saying These Words on Tenants:
The impact of certain phrases used by management teams on tenants can be significant and have lasting effects on the overall tenant experience. Here’s a breakdown of the potential impacts:
- Dismissive Attitude (“It’s not our problem”):
Impact: Tenants may feel neglected, unimportant, and unsupported.
Result: Reduced tenant satisfaction, increased frustration, and a strained relationship between the tenant and management.
- Blame and Disregard for Concerns (“You signed the lease, deal with it”):
Impact: Tenants may feel invalidated, unheard, and stuck in undesirable situations.
Result: Eroded trust, increased tenant dissatisfaction, and potential conflicts that could escalate over time.
- Resistance to Change (“We’ve always done it this way”):
Impact: Tenants may perceive management as inflexible and unresponsive to their needs.
Result: Diminished tenant loyalty, missed opportunities for improvement, and a failure to adapt to changing tenant expectations.
- Condescending Tone (“You’re lucky to have this place”):
Impact: Tenants may feel disrespected and undervalued.
Result: Increased resentment, decreased tenant morale, and a negative impact on the overall community atmosphere.
- Disregard for Privacy (“We can enter your unit whenever we want”):
Impact: Tenants may experience a violation of their privacy and a lack of security.
Result: Heightened anxiety, decreased sense of home security, and potential legal issues if the management violates privacy rights.
Bottom Line:
Maintaining a positive relationship between property management teams and tenants is crucial for a thriving rental community. By avoiding these five phrases and adopting a respectful, empathetic approach, management teams can foster open communication, address concerns effectively, and contribute to a positive living experience for all residents. Remember, effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful landlord-tenant relationship. If you want more helpful content then explore our more blogs and watch the free training webinars from the industry experts.
