Hi All,
I self manage my rental property and my tenant only ever really communicates by text or phone call (he doesn't really use his email). I don't mind this but from a "cover my butt" point of view, I prefer to have things in writing.
Are text messages an acceptable form of written evidence? It seems to me it is the same sort of thing as an email, provided I periodically download the texts onto my computer.
I continue to send formal letters for important things like periodic rent inspections and would write a letter if rent ever became overdue or there was an issue.
I'd appreciate your thoughts. Are there any agents out there who have experiences worth sharing?
Thanks
I'm no legal eagle but I can't see why text messages would be treated any differently to an email from that perspective.
The legal guru Terry W may be able to elaborate.
Cheers
Jamie
Jamie Moore | Pass Go Home Loans Pty Ltd
http://www.passgo.com.au
Email Me | Phone MeMortgage Broker assisting clients Australia wide Email: [email protected]
I would say to cover ur butt on anything that seems important just send it in a printed format anyway. If u send the email as well as text u have that record.
Speaking of text msgs, my tenant texted me last night (sunday) at 9.45pm because she wants the globes changed from 60 to 80 watts. What cheek!
same. one tenant with a liking for text messages.
This is one of the exact reasons why I have a PM handle my properties. I really don't want any personal relationship with my tenants. I want it to be strictly business then I know I won't be second guessing myself or feeling guilty when I up my rents!
my ip's are managed by a pm but they still love to text me.
Just make sure that they don't exceed the maximum wattage for the light fitting.
jmsrachel wrote:Speaking of text msgs, my tenant texted me last night (sunday) at 9.45pm because she wants the globes changed from 60 to 80 watts. What cheek!haha! Why not reply with a drunken text at 3:30 am informing her of a rental increase.
I'd direct them straight back to the PM with a kind reminder that you're the property owner – not the manager. The PM is getting paid to manage the property – I'd be annoyed if tenants were contacting me directly, especially after hours, especially on the weekend!
Cheers
Jamie
Jamie Moore | Pass Go Home Loans Pty Ltd
http://www.passgo.com.au
Email Me | Phone MeMortgage Broker assisting clients Australia wide Email: [email protected]
If some problem were to arise you may find youself in a tribunal or court and you could have the texts admitted as evidence. I wouldn't rely on them too much though, especially not for contractual matters.
Terryw | Structuring Lawyers Pty Ltd / Loan Structuring Pty Ltd
http://www.Structuring.com.au
Email MeLawyer, Mortgage Broker and Tax Advisor (Sydney based but advising Aust wide) http://www.Structuring.com.au
Rick sta wrote:jmsrachel wrote:Speaking of text msgs, my tenant texted me last night (sunday) at 9.45pm because she wants the globes changed from 60 to 80 watts. What cheek!haha! Why not reply with a drunken text at 3:30 am informing her of a rental increase.
I texted her back with 2 letters. F and O.
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