Often times, when we hear about renter-landlord conflicts, most of us assume that the problem was with the landlord and that the renter was, for the most part, innocent. However, most landlords only have problems with problem tenants, so here are a few things you can do to help keep your landlord a happy person.

First and foremost, try to never be late on rent. Remember, your landlord is just like you. He or she is trying to make a living off of an investment, and it only causes problems when that investment doesn’t come through on time. The best way you can stay on good terms with your landlord is by paying rent on time, every time.

One of the biggest sources of conflict between renter and landlord is when the tenant requests something to be fixed and that request goes unheeded for weeks on end. We assume that the landlord isn’t doing his or her job because they are cheap or because they don’t want to invest the time, but that isn’t always the case. It could be a simple matter of priorities where there are other issues that need attention before yours. By automatically jumping to conclusions, you aren’t giving your landlord the benefit of the doubt.

Finally, calling your landlord ahead of time and asking about any changes you want to make in the apartment can go a long way in staying on their good side. Even if the lease says you can paint the walls, a polite, courtesy phone call to let your landlord know is always in good taste.