Florida Real Estate Broker ExaminationReal Estate Brokerage ManagementEasy
A Florida broker manages an apartment complex for an owner. One of the tenants complains about a severe plumbing leak that is causing damage. The tenant has notified the broker multiple times, but no action has been taken after a reasonable period. What is the broker's primary duty in this situation regarding the property owner?
- ATo personally fix the plumbing leak to avoid further damage.
- BTo evict the tenant for making excessive complaints.
- CTo advise the tenant to withhold rent until the repair is made.
- DTo inform the owner promptly about the tenant's complaint and the need for repairs.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. To inform the owner promptly about the tenant's complaint and the need for repairs.
A property manager, acting as an agent for the owner, has a fiduciary duty to promptly inform the owner of any material facts concerning the property, including maintenance issues and tenant complaints that require the owner's attention and decision for repair.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Brokers are generally not expected to perform physical repairs themselves.
- B. Eviction for legitimate complaints is unethical and likely illegal.
- C. Advising a tenant to withhold rent is providing legal advice, which a broker is not licensed to do, and could harm the owner.
Property Manager's Duty to Owner
A property manager, as an agent, must keep the owner fully informed of all material facts and issues pertaining to the managed property.
- Duty of full disclosure.
- Prompt communication of maintenance needs.
- Act in the owner's best interest.
Memory trick: Manage property, manage communication: keep the owner in the loop, always.