When a landlord receives a new tenant, they have several important duties and responsibilities to ensure a smooth and lawful transition. First and foremost, the landlord must provide a safe, clean, and habitable living space that complies with local building, health, and safety codes. This includes making sure heating, plumbing, electrical systems, and smoke detectors are fully operational.

A written lease or rental agreement should be provided, clearly outlining the terms and conditions of the tenancy, such as rent amount, payment due dates, duration of the lease, and rules regarding the property. The landlord is responsible for reviewing the lease with the tenant to ensure mutual understanding before signing.

At move-in, landlords should conduct a walk-through inspection with the tenant to document the condition of the unit. This helps avoid disputes over damage or wear-and-tear at the end of the lease. Providing a copy of this inspection report, along with keys and any necessary building access instructions, is essential.

Landlords must also ensure the unit is ready for occupancy on the agreed-upon date. If utilities are the landlord’s responsibility, they must be connected and working. If utilities are the tenant’s responsibility, the landlord should provide necessary information for activation.

In some jurisdictions, landlords are also required to provide tenants with legal disclosures, such as landlord contact information, information about pest control, or lead paint disclosures for older buildings.

Ultimately, a landlord’s responsibilities are rooted in maintaining a safe, respectful, and professional relationship with the tenant from day one.