Property Owners FAQs

Property Owners FAQs

Are you a landlord or property owner in Kamloops or the surrounding areas, looking for guidance on managing your rental? You’re in luck! Our knowledgeable team at RE/MAX Commercial Solutions, including Rohit Kumar, has compiled answers to top questions we hear from owners just like you.

Backed by years of real estate experience, we know how to keep your property running smoothly—whether you’re renting a single-family home, condo, or multi-unit property in the Thompson region. Count on us to navigate British Columbia’s regulations, secure quality tenants, and protect your investment. Check out our frequently asked questions below or reach out directly if you need a more personalized solution for your property management needs.

What is included in property management? ▶
If the property already has a tenant, we’ll take over rent collection, arranging repairs, and managing accounting. We can also pay for repairs out of the rental income. If vacant, we list the property, handle showings, run thorough applications, and present qualified candidates for your approval. Once a tenant is approved, we sign a lease, do a move-in Condition Inspection, and then continue full-service day-to-day management.
What are the benefits of having a property manager? ▶
We bring a network of trusted vendors for repairs and a realistic view of rental pricing. We can suggest changes if a property isn’t attracting tenants, and we often have a pool of prospective renters. Overall, professional management saves time, reduces hassle, and can improve returns.
How much of a deposit can the landlord ask for? ▶
By BC law, you can request a security deposit up to half a month’s rent, plus a separate pet deposit up to half a month’s rent if you allow pets.
What is subletting and is it allowed? ▶
Subletting is when a tenant rents the unit to someone else—often without the landlord’s permission. We typically don’t allow subletting so we always know exactly who’s living in the property.
Can you guarantee an arbitration outcome? ▶
Arbitration results depend on many factors, so we cannot guarantee a specific outcome. If you have concerns, we recommend speaking with your property manager to discuss strategies.
Do you inspect the property periodically? ▶
Yes. Our standard management contract includes two walk-through inspections per year, though we can schedule additional checks if needed.
Should I make my property pet friendly? ▶
We often advise being open to pets because it widens the applicant pool, though you can set restrictions if you’re allergic or if the home is furnished. It’s about balancing more tenant options with potential wear and tear.
If an applicant has a pet, are there extra screening steps? ▶
Typically, we’ll confirm pet references with past landlords to see if there were any issues. If feasible, meeting the pet can also help gauge behavior.
What is on the rental application? ▶
We check references from at least two past landlords, plus a work reference. We also run background and credit checks, and sometimes review relevant social media. This ensures we place reliable tenants.
What type of licensing does a property manager need? ▶
In British Columbia, property managers must complete the Property Management course through the Sauder School of Business. This is required to legally manage properties in our region.
What length and type of tenancy do you recommend? ▶
We often begin with six-month or one-year fixed-term leases for stability. The best option can depend on factors like property type and owner goals.
Is it ever too late to hire a property manager? ▶
No. Whether your property is vacant, partially occupied, or already leased, we can step in at any stage to streamline operations and protect your investment.
How do I properly serve a notice to a tenant? ▶
If served in person (with proof), it’s considered received that day. Posting on the door means it’s received after three days, and registered mail is after five. Always document your method and dates.
What are the different types of leases? (Fixed term, month-to-month, must move) ▶
A fixed term lease sets a specific duration for tenancy. Month-to-month allows either party to give notice more flexibly. A “must move” clause means the tenant must vacate at the term’s end with no automatic renewal.
My tenant wants a pet after a year. What do I do? ▶
We recommend an amendment to the tenancy agreement, specifying the pet’s start date and any rules. If you charge a pet deposit, include that in the amendment too. Both landlord and tenant should sign.
How do I choose a property manager or company? ▶
We suggest researching reviews, websites, and calling a few companies. Pay attention to response times and local market knowledge. Ask about fees, screening processes, and communication style to find the right fit for you.
What happens when a tenant doesn’t pay rent? ▶
Typically, a 10-day notice is served if rent is unpaid by the second day. Tenants then have five days to pay or 10 days to move. Failure to comply can result in eviction proceedings.
Do you allow short-term rentals? ▶
Only if specifically requested by the owner. Otherwise, we generally prefer long-term leases, typically around a year, for stability.
What happens if a tenant is evicted and does not move? ▶
The landlord must file for an Order of Possession through the Residential Tenancy Branch. If the tenant still refuses to leave, a bailiff can enforce the eviction.
How does arbitration work? ▶
Arbitration is a dispute resolution process where a Tenancy Branch arbitrator reviews evidence from both parties and makes a binding decision.
How long does it take to find a tenant? ▶
It depends on factors like property condition (the product), price, and exposure. If it’s not renting, it may mean adjusting the rent, improving marketing, or upgrading features to attract tenants.
What if I need a repair done on my property? ▶
We can coordinate and oversee repairs. You can use your preferred vendor or one from our trusted network. We aim to handle requests efficiently to keep the property well-maintained.
Will a property manager make renovation recommendations? ▶
Absolutely. We can suggest value-adding upgrades to maximize rent or attract quality tenants, such as updating appliances, flooring, or landscaping.
What if there is an emergency at my property after hours? ▶
Though our office hours are typically weekdays, we respond to genuine emergencies 24/7 to protect your investment and address urgent tenant issues.
How do you screen tenants? ▶
After meeting the prospective tenant at a showing, we run thorough background, credit, and rental history checks, plus verify employment. This comprehensive approach helps us find reliable renters.
How do you determine the best rent for a property? ▶
We consider location, size, condition, appliances, parking, pet allowances, and the time of year. Market data and experience help us set a competitive yet profitable rate.
How often should I hear from my property manager? ▶
Once everything’s running smoothly, communication tends to be less frequent. We’ll still notify you of any issues, but minimal contact often means a hassle-free tenancy.
What are the different types of notices? (2 month, 10 day, 1 month) ▶
Two-month notice: Used for major changes like renovations or owner occupancy. Tenant can move sooner with 10 days’ notice, and final month’s rent may be covered by the owner.

Ten-day notice: For unpaid rent/utilities. Tenant has five days to pay, or 10 to move, paying within five days voids the notice.

One-month notice: For cause (e.g., repeated late rent, major disturbances, or lease breaches).
How much should I charge for security and pet deposit? What is the max amount I can ask? ▶
BC law allows you to collect up to half a month’s rent for security and half a month’s rent for pet deposit—no more. This helps cover potential damages.
What is a “Condition Inspection Report” and why do I need one? ▶
It’s a document noting any damage or issues when a tenant moves in. On move-out, it helps determine if new damages occurred during tenancy. Protects both tenant and owner by clearly recording the property’s state.