No matter how good a tenant may be – and no matter how responsive the landlord is – there may occasionally be disputes. Being properly prepared for landlord/tenant disputes can make all the difference in achieving a good result. There is often no need to jump into the courtroom right away, because a solution may be easier than you think. These are the top 5 tips for resolving a landlord/tenant dispute today.
1. Be Aware of the Laws
Disputes often happen simply because either the tenant or the landlord doesn’t know the laws pertaining to rental properties. Educate yourself on the housing laws, including the legal guidelines for leases, the required duties of the landlord, chicago renters rights, and the timelines regarding these things. By simply knowing what the law says, you’re in a power position that will allow you to approach the situation with confidence.
2. Approach the Situation Calmly
Tenants and landlords may both get extremely frustrated during a dispute, and that is only natural. However, a blowup is a sure way to make things even more contentious. Sometimes, just breathing deep and staying level-headed about the situation makes all the difference. If that means you need some extra time to compose yourself before dealing with the other party, take that time. It’s worth it in the long run.
3. Try the Talking Approach
In many situations, the dispute dissolves into an electronic fight before any actual talking takes place. The whole dispute may consist of angry emails, text messages, or phone messages. While it may sound strange, just simply talking face to face may make a big difference. There are some things that just can’t be conveyed electronically, and talking to the other party in person may help them see where you’re coming from more easily.
4. Use a Mediation Expert
If you find yourself at an impasse after trying the first three tactics, consider working with a professional mediation expert. A property dispute mediator is very well versed in the landlord/tenant laws, and they are also able to help keep negotiations calm because they are an impartial party. The mediation expert can help both landlord and tenant understand the law better, and can help both parties see solutions that they may not have considered before.
5. Begin the Arbitration Process
The arbitration process is something that could be considered a last resort when all other types of negotiation fail. Arbitration is much like the mediation process. However, an arbitration is legally binding. Generally, an arbitrator will consider what both parties have to say, and will then make a ruling that best adheres to the law. Landlord and tenant are both then required to meet the terms of the ruling, and the matter is considered fully legally resolved thereafter.
While a landlord tenant dispute chicago certainly isn’t fun to deal with, it may not have to be quite as difficult as most people imagine. Use the tips above to make it as easy as possible on both you and the other party involved!
