The moment that you sign an application and lease, you become a tenant. Thats when you want to strive to be a good tenant because it pays off in the long run. For one, you get the proper help when you communicate properly and through the correct channel of communication and in turn you have the best experience possible while living in your new place. In this article we'll outline tips on how to be the best tenant. Landlords, Property Managers, and Tenants all want the best possible relationship and it takes communication and honesty in both directions.

Read Your Lease and Ask Questions
It's your responsibility as a tenant to make sure you read and understand the terms of your lease agreement. A good landlord will explain the terms of your lease and be clear about expectations. Understanding the terms will ensure you do not break the lease or put yourself at risk of getting into a bad spot. Most leases will discuss the rent amount due each month, the security deposit amount, rules for pets, and the expectations of keeping the place clean along with schedule and emergency maintenance. You should make sure you understand the requirements and are comfortable with them before signing the lease.

Pay Your Rent on Time
A good tenant will always pay rent on time every month, no excuses. Landlords appreciate tenants who do not miss rent or pay rent late, as they do not want the hassle of having to track down a tenant or chase after them for rent. Missing a rent payment could lead to an eviction so always pay your rent on time every month, without fail. If you think you may be short on rent for the month, you should reach out to your landlord and let him or her know that you are struggling financially and he or she may be able to work with you. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure as they say. 

Do Not Break Lease Terms
A good tenant will follow the rules that are outlined in the lease. Breaking the terms of your lease could be grounds for termination of your rental agreement and possible eviction. Following the rules of your lease will also ensure you maintain a positive relationship with the property manager or owner. For example, if you decide you would like a pet but your lease does not allow pets, you should not sneak a pet into your rental. This would be considered breaking the terms of your lease and could lead to eviction.

Keep Your Place Clean
A good tenant will make sure the property is kept clean on a day-to-day basis. You may need to create a cleaning schedule where you clean certain areas once a day or once a week. If you have roommates, you could decide on how to split up the cleaning tasks. If the rental has carpet, you should make an effort to keep the carpet clean and stain-free. Avoid eating or drinking in areas with carpet by putting down rugs or mats to protect it.

Be Prompt When Reporting Repairs and Maintenance
If you find that something in your home needs a repair or maintenance, do not try to do it yourself. This could lead to further damage or issues that you may be responsible to pay for. Instead, promptly contact your landlord so they can address the issue properly. Do not be afraid to contact your landlord about repairs or maintenance, as this is part of their responsibilities as a property manager. You should not be responsible for doing repairs or maintenance in the rental, as this is not your responsibility as the tenant, but reporting the issue is. 

Respect Noise Requirements
Your lease will likely specify the noise level requirements for the lease. Your lease may mention a specific time of night where loud noise is not permitted. You should follow the requirement and avoid or playing loud music after the specified time or hosting a party. If you are planning to have a party or a get together, you should notify your landlord ahead of time. It's possible that your landlord may bend the noise restriction if you are respectful and are willing to quiet down if someone else in the building complains.

Get Renters Insurance
Keep in mind that your landlord is not responsible for the loss or theft of your personal property. You should protect yourself by getting Renters insurance so you are covered in the event of theft or a fire. Renters insurance is not expensive and requires you to pay a fee once a month to an insurance provider. Ask your insurance agent or landlord about where to get Renters Insurance.

Move Out the Right Way
When it comes time for you to move out, you should do so within the agreed time frame. Make sure you leave the rental as you viewed it, clean and free from damage. Leaving the rental in good condition will help you get a good reference from your landlord for your next rental. Landlords worth together with reference calls. You should always give your landlord some advance notice before you move out so that you make sure the move-out date works with your rental agreement. You should arrange a walk-through inspection of the unit with your property manager on your move-out day to make sure there is no damage or issues.

Doing these things will help make sure you enjoy your stay and put yourself in a good position if and when you need help. These tips can help you avoid some of the problems tenants can encounter.