HOA and Rental Property Management News and Updates

Secret Leaks

Causes and Solutions for Landlords

Landlords may encounter issues if the eviction filing process is not done correctly. Improper filing can lead to delays, legal complications, and even the dismissal of the case. Common Mistakes: Incorrect Forms or Documents : Failing to complete the correct forms or submit the required documentation for eviction can cause the court to dismiss the case. This includes submitting outdated forms or missing essential information. Filing in the Wrong Court : Evictions should be filed in the appropriate court based on the location of the rental property. Filing in the wrong jurisdiction can result in delays or dismissal of the case. Failure to Serve the Tenant Properly : Proper legal service is required to notify the tenant of the eviction hearing. If the tenant is not served according to legal requirements (e.g., by a constable or sheriff), the eviction may be invalid. Not Following Proper Legal Procedures : Landlords must follow the correct legal steps, such as obtaining a judgment from the court before proceeding with eviction. Skipping any legal procedures can undermine the eviction process. Solutions: Ensure that all eviction forms are current, complete, and include all required information. Always file eviction cases in the court located in the county where the rental property is situated. Make sure to serve eviction papers through proper legal channels, such as by a constable or sheriff, to avoid invalidation. Consult an attorney or research local eviction laws to ensure all steps, such as obtaining a court judgment, are followed. By adhering to these proper filing procedures, investors can avoid costly delays and complications during the eviction process.

Fog in Houston can be common during certain times of the year, especially in the early mornings or after a rainstorm. If you're experiencing foggy weather, here are a few tips to stay safe and comfortable: 1. Be Cautious When Driving Visibility can be significantly reduced during foggy conditions, so it’s important to slow down. High beams can reflect off the fog and make it harder to see, so use low-beam headlights when driving. Allow extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, as stopping distances can increase in foggy conditions. 2. Check for Dampness Inside Foggy weather can sometimes lead to higher humidity levels. Make sure your home is well-ventilated to prevent excess moisture buildup, which could lead to condensation. Open windows slightly (if safe) to let fresh air in. Use dehumidifiers or air conditioning if humidity feels high. Ensure that windows and doors have proper weather seals to avoid drafts and moisture buildup. 3. Prevent Mold and Mildew Keep exhaust fans running in bathrooms and kitchens, especially when cooking or showering, to reduce humidity levels inside. After foggy mornings, look out for any condensation on windows or walls and wipe it down to prevent mold. 4. Increase Indoor Lighting Since fog reduces outdoor light levels, make sure your indoor lighting is sufficient to help you navigate around your home safely, especially in the morning or evening. 5. Prepare for Slippery Conditions Fog can make surfaces like sidewalks and driveways damp, and if temperatures are near freezing, it could even create icy spots. Walk slowly and wear shoes with good traction. If you have a porch or walkway, keep it clear of water or ice to prevent slipping hazards. 6. Stay Alert for Changing Conditions Fog can come and go quickly, so stay alert for sudden changes in visibility. If you're going outside, be ready for conditions to shift. 7. Prepare for Allergies Fog can sometimes trap pollutants and allergens close to the ground, which may cause issues for people with respiratory conditions. Keep windows closed if you’re sensitive to allergies. 8. Safety in Emergency Situations In case of a power outage (which can happen in any weather), keep flashlights or emergency lighting handy. Make sure your phone is fully charged, as foggy weather may sometimes cause unexpected delays in transportation or emergencies. Fog can create some visibility challenges, but these precautions can help ensure you stay safe and comfortable indoors and when you’re out and about.

Unauthorized pets refer to pets that a tenant has kept in a rental property in violation of the lease agreement. As a landlord, enforcing lease terms regarding unauthorized pets involves adhering to both the terms of the lease agreement and local, state, and federal laws. At Ashoka Lion, all residents are required to undergo Pet Screening , regardless of whether they own a pet. The lease agreement at Ashoka Lion clearly outlines pet policies. Pet Screening ensures that tenants are fully aware of these policies, whether they have a pet or not. Steps for Dealing with Unauthorized Pets: 1. The lease should clearly state whether pets are allowed, and if so, under what conditions (e.g., specific types of pets, size/weight limits, and breed restrictions). If pets are prohibited altogether, it should explicitly state that no pets are allowed on the premises. 2. If a tenant has a service animal or emotional support animal, federal law requires landlords to make accommodations, even if the lease prohibits pets. These are not considered "pets" under the law and must be allowed. Landlords must adhere to the basic tenant protections and rights outlined in Texas Law . Landlords must fully understand and comply with the Texas Property Code . 3. To enforce the lease term, document the violation thoroughly: Gather evidence, including witness statements (e.g., from neighbors), photographs, or video of the unauthorized pet. Keep a log of any complaints or reports regarding the pet. 4. Once the unauthorized pet is identified, the landlord should send a formal written notice  to the tenant. 5. If the tenant acknowledges the violation and agrees to remove the pet, provide them with a reasonable amount of time (typically 7-10 days) to comply. However, make sure to follow up to ensure the issue is resolved. 6. If the lease outlines a fine or penalty for having unauthorized pets, you can enforce this provision by: Charging the tenant the specified fee. Deductions from the tenant’s security deposit, if applicable. Sending an updated statement showing the fines or charges, or adding the fines to the tenant's account. 7. If the tenant refuses to remove the pet or pay any fines, and the lease clearly prohibits pets, you can begin eviction proceedings. However, eviction should only be used as a last resort. If the tenant does not comply after receiving the first notice, send a second notice warning that you may proceed with eviction if the pet is not removed. If the tenant still does not comply, you can file for eviction in the local Justice of the Peace court. By clearly communicating expectations and ensuring the lease includes clear pet policies, Landlords can effectively manage and enforce rules regarding unauthorized pets.

An unauthorized occupant is a person (18+) living in your rental property who is not listed in the lease agreement. Unauthorized occupants can cause complications for landlords, especially when tenants allow others to live in the property without permission. Common Issues: Tenants may sublet the property or allow others to live in the unit without informing the landlord, violating lease terms. Allowing more people to occupy the rental than permitted can lead to safety hazards, property damage, or issues with local regulations. Sometimes, unauthorized occupants may not be immediately visible, and landlords might not notice until issues arise (e.g., complaints from neighbors or increased wear and tear on the property). Since the unauthorized occupant has not signed a lease and has no legal right to live in the property, they also have no legal obligation to abide by the lease the landlord has no legal right to enforce consequences either. The unauthorized occupants do not pay rents or any bills and continue to stay causing financial damage to the Landlord. Solutions: Ensure that the lease specifies who is allowed to live in the property, and clarify policies around subletting and additional occupants. Screen the tenants thoroughly before signing the lease and review their rental history. Regularly remind tenants of the lease terms regarding unauthorized occupants and request written consent for any changes. If unauthorized occupants are discovered, address the issue immediately by issuing a notice and asking the tenant to rectify the situation. If the tenant refuses to comply, landlords may need to initiate eviction proceedings or legal action based on lease violations. One of the most effective ways to reduce these risks and save time is by working with a Property management Company. By actively managing unauthorized occupants and enforcing lease terms, landlords can maintain control over their rental property and avoid complications.

Decluttering Your Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

As Spring approaches, the temperatures begin to rise leading to milder days , cooler and longer nights. Trees and plants start to bloom, with flowers budding and leaves returning to trees, signaling the end of winter dormancy. It’s a prime time for planting and starting gardens, as soil temperatures become favorable for growth. Spring brings various cultural celebrations and holidays, such as Easter and Earth Day, marking the season’s significance. It's time for some deep cleaning and maintenance to prepare for the spring. Here are some important things for Tenants to keep in mind during spring: Deep Cleaning: Take the opportunity to do a thorough spring cleaning, including dusting, vacuuming, and washing windows. Inspect for Pests: Check for any signs of pests, such as ants or spiders, and report any issues to your landlord. Air Conditioning Preparation: Test the air conditioning unit and replace filters to ensure it’s ready for warmer temperatures. Outdoor Maintenance: If you have a yard or patio, clean up debris, mow the lawn, and consider planting seasonal flowers or herbs. Check for Repairs: Inspect your living space for any needed repairs, like leaks or cracks, and notify your landlord promptly. Window Maintenance: Clean and inspect windows for any damage or drafts, and consider using screens to keep bugs out. Safety Equipment: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Review Lease Responsibilities: Check your lease for any seasonal maintenance tasks you may be responsible for, such as lawn care. Emergency Kit: Update your emergency kit with spring-specific items like allergy medications or first aid supplies. Plan for Severe Weather: Be aware of the spring storm season in Houston. Have a plan for severe weather, including keeping important documents in a safe place.  Tenants can thus enjoy a smooth and pleasant transition into the spring season!

Landlords may sometimes make mistakes when issuing eviction notices, leading to complications in the Eviction process . Common Mistakes: Failure to Provide Proper Written Notice : Landlords are required by law to provide written notice of eviction , specifying the reason (e.g., non-payment, lease violation). Oral notices or informal messages can lead to legal issues. Insufficient Notice Period : Laws in Texas require that tenants receive a specific amount of notice before eviction proceedings begin. For non-payment, it's typically 3 days. Not providing the correct notice period can invalidate the eviction. Incorrect or Missing Information : The eviction notice must include certain details, such as the date, amount due, and the specific action required (e.g., paying overdue rent). Missing or incorrect information can delay the process. Not Following Local Regulations : Each municipality might have specific rules related to eviction notices (e.g., the format, delivery method). Failing to adhere to these can make the notice ineffective. Solutions: Always issue written notices , clearly outlining the reason for eviction, the date, and the actions needed from the tenant. Ensure the notice period aligns with Texas law (typically 3 days for non-payment, longer for lease violations). Review and adhere to local ordinances to ensure compliance with eviction laws in your city or county. By following proper procedures and issuing correct notices, investors can avoid delays and legal complications during the eviction process.