A caretaker as regards tenancy matters in Cameroon is that person, group or organization that cares for the real estate for payment/financial compensation and sometimes as a barter for rent-free living accommodations.
Caretakers are sometimes used by property owners who are unwilling to hire a professional management company.
Caretakers are not licensed by any state or local authority though they can be bound by contract be it verbal or written. Caretakers are also relatively cheaper for landlords than their professional counterparts.
In Cameroon, a good number of buildings have a caretaker who lives in the property and carries out numerous responsibilities. It is important to note that some of these caretakers usually live in a flat for free.
Caretakers have a great responsibility towards the upkeep of the estate they manage on behalf of the landlord.
DUTIES OF A CARETAKER IN A TENANCY CONTRACT IN CAMEROON
A caretaker plays an important role in the management of the estate of a landlord. His role is as follows;
- Ensures that the habitation of tenants is not disturbed.
- Ensure that tenant problems are met with solutions.
- Ensures that he reports to the landlord any fundamental issues affecting the estate.
- Ensure that he provides experts for maintenance and repair purposes.
- Contribute in making sure the property is in a good state of repair.
- Ensure that the property of the landlord and tenant is secured.
- Ensure that tenants respect their obligation in the tenancy contract.
- Ensure that payments of fees for taxes such as land tax are paid by the landlord.
- Generally attends to any problems concerning the estate of the landlord.
The above mentioned duties are not exhaustive as other duties can be added by the landlord in a caretaker agreement.