I think a grill, which is meant to be kept outside, should be allowed anywhere on the property.

An addendum should probably have a generalization, then some specific examples. Maybe something like:

That's micromanagement in my book.

I don't care where they grill or keep their grill, as long as they use it safely and don't damage the property.

I mostly care about getting paid ontime and minimal damage.

I think that Marie is saying that the grill is old and leaving it there detracts from the appearance of the property.

Since I have SFH's I am always cognizant of their appearance and making sure that my houses all fit into the neighborhood.

Good neighbors can be very helpful. However, if you establish a reputation of being a LL who doesn't care how the property looks,neighbors can create plenty of problems.

Marie, is there some reason that she can't grill in back? Can you do something to entice her? If not, she sounds like a tenant I would not renew at lease end. If she's arguing with you about this request, I predict she will want her way for other issues too.

Marie: If she is MTM, and if you care enough to lose a tenant, you can serve her with an Amendement to the Lease, prohibiting storage of BBQ grills in the front yard. (Then, you'll get into a p1ssing contest as to whether she is "storing it" between her uses of it.) If she is on a lease, no, there is nothing you can do about it, unless a local ordinance forbids it.

Andrew's proposed provision is not sufficient, unless the grill is a gas or electric appliance. If she is using a charcoal bricket style grill, it is not prohibited. I sugest not beingcute -- say what you mean, "No grills in front yard."

I would rather have it in the front

yard than on the wood deck out back.

We do ask they put them in the back yard and not on the porches. Once I even

approved a very picky renter to put

Marie,

I know how that makes you feel. To go with the grills, all she needs is some old kitchen chairs and a rain soaked couch!

You want your places to look well kept, tidy and middle class. Well, honey, if she keeps the grill in the front yard, she's probably a little trashy...sorry but that's what I think.

"Dear Resident, This is our simple form letter to tell you someone has complained about

______. (long list to check off the offense) Please remedy this situation to get along with the neighbors.

Someone from our office will drive by in 1 week to check.

Thanks in advance for your cooperation!

When we each do a little bit, the neighborhood in nice for everyone."

or

"Our standard policy is that grills and trash cans be kept out of sight from the street."

Brad, if your "standard policies" are not written in the lease, and are not referenced in the lease, then the tenant has no obligation to abide by them. Your only remedy would be to wait until the lease is up and then not renew.