[quote name=`spark1` date=`Jul 29 2010, 03:29 PM` post=`90322`]
Thank you very much for your feedback. I love an analogy with the toilet paper.
Obviously I take care of the common space and all light bulbs were working in his room when he moved in. Theoretically they should last longer than 3 months. Another thing - these ceiling bulbs are kind of expensive - around $4 per bulb.
I am in Ontario. I am trying to find something in RTA to support my position to refuse provide him bulbs in the future.
Thanks again to all.
Spark
/quote]
hi Spark,
4 bulbs in 3 months--is it possible there is an electrical issue? or were they just installed at the same time and coming to the end of their life at the same time? If it`s an electrical issue, then you should get an electrician in to look at it because your tenant should not have to deal with that many bulbs burning out all the time. If it`s simply that the bulbs were all installed at the same time and coming to the end of their life, then count the rest of the bulbs in his space and buy a bunch at once and give him.
At $4 a bulb, I would not expect my tenant to pay for that, they did not chose the light fixture that requires $4 bulbs. What kind of bulb is it and can you just buy it cheaper in bulk?
I would just buy the bulb and pick up one or 2 extra. Just think, for a small investment of only $8, you can save yourself 2 phone calls, 2 trips to the store and 2 trips to the house. How much is your time worth?
One thing you can do for future is make sure that all lighting fixtured installed take a standard type bulb, that will make things easier for you. OR, you can just supply an extra bulb or 2 at move in for any "unusual" bulb requirements. I usually try and supply at least one extra bulb for any light fixture that does not take the regular cheap 60 watt standard light bulb, ie track lighting, pot lighting. Think of it as practive landlording of sorts, a small investment up front that will save you time later and show your tenants that care. Think about it from a tenant prespective, it would also be a lot easier for him if when the bulb blew he had one there to replace it instead of calling you and waiting for you come over with it. He would be much happier (we hope, some people will never be happy) and therefore perhaps feel better about his home and hopefully call you less. All this for only $4 a bulb, it`s a deal, really.
just my 2cents,
Terri