Landlord / Tenant Investigations

Landlords, why wait until after you have rented to find out that the tenant has a history of non-payment, causing property damage or causing problems with neighbors? It is must less expensive to hire an investigator to do a background check than it is to evict, file small claims for rent or damage. We can help you find the renters that have good references and payment history.

What are my rights as a landlord?

• As a landlord, you should receive full payment of the rent on time, so long as you keep the rental property in good condition.
• Tenants should let you know when they are leaving town for an extended period of time.
• Tenants should request repairs in a timely manner and in writing.
• Tenants must abide by all terms of the signed lease.
• Month to month tenants must provide 15 days written notice before moving, unless the rental agreement specifies another notice period.

What are my responsibilities as a landlord?

• Comply with all health and building codes that apply to the rental property.
• Make requested repairs promptly.
• Give the tenants 24 hours written notice prior to entering their home, except in emergencies
• Maintain peace and quiet. Ensure that tenants can live on the property in peace, without unreasonable disturbances from you or other tenants.
• Give fifteen days written notice of any changes in a month-to-month agreement, such as rent increases, unless there is a written rental agreement which specifies a longer notice period. If there is, give written notice of any changes in compliance with the longer period of time in the written agreement.
• Abide by the lease agreement.
• If an eviction is necessary, follow the legal (statutory) eviction process set out in Utah Code 78B-6-801 through 816.

Tenants, have you ever been told that rent included this or that, only to find out it wasn't in the contract. Did your landlord keep deposits without disclosing why? Did you know landlords can only keep actual costs and must give you a written notice of damages or cleaning costs within 30 days of vacancy or they must return your deposit.

If your landlord does not return your deposit, he or she may be subject to a $100 civil fine and court expenses. You may also sue your landlord in small claims court for any amount less than $7,500.

For what repairs am I responsible?

Generally, tenants are responsible for repairing the rented premises as well as for items that may have been damaged through careless action. For example, if a tenant fails to clean out a sink and it clogs, the tenant will be responsible for repairs.