Pretty high on the list of priorities for the landlord is getting a good insurance policy for any property that’s rented out. After all, risks lurk in every nook and cranny. No matter what kind of excellent relationship you may think you have with your tenant, if he or she or any guests suffer damages or injury due to something that can be chalked up to your liability, you will be held accountable. That could lead to financial difficulty or even calamity without the supportive insurance coverage.

Then, there are the other things the landlord needs to know.

8 Smart Ways to Deal with Renters:

• Prior to renting out your property, field out the lemons. Check credit ratings, background and ask pointed questions to previous landlords regarding good standing, timely rental payment, house upkeep and social network. Look out for fake references by presenting questions that will demonstrate the man or woman as a genuine previous landlord, rather than a friend or relative.

RELATED: Why a property manager needs insurance

• Draft a customized lease that outlines essential terms. You may wish to use a standard rental agreement form and add on anything you wish to include and review it with an attorney for legal screening.
  
  
• Aside from emergencies, establish prearranged hours when you can be reached by your tenant. 
  
  
• Make a thorough inspection of the premises before your tenant moves in and have the condition documented and signed by the tenant so that at the end of the lease, you will be able to determine if there is a need to deduct any amount from the security deposit because of damages.
  
• Respect your tenants by speaking politely and treating them fairly.
  
  
• Encourage your tenants to take out Renters Insurance by explaining that your Homeowners Insurance Policy only covers the structure of the property and not their personal belongings or liability.
  
  
• Maintain your property throughout the lease by making timely repairs so that you will establish yourself as a good landlord and so that your tenant will not obtain legal rights to withhold rent, fix the problem themselves and then deduct the cost from the rent, move out without giving adequate notice or initiate a lawsuit for an injury that was incurred as a result of your neglect.
  
  
• Before resorting to legal proceedings with your tenant in regard to any dispute, try to work it out amiably by coming to a mutual understanding. 

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Summary: The most important thing that landlords need besides a good insurance plan is the basics on how to deal with their tenants. This quick primer can help them avoid any related financial loss.