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How to switch property managers

Short answer

To switch property managers, read your contract's termination clause, give written notice, line up the new manager first, and get a hand-over of keys, the tenant's security deposit, rent ledgers, leases and maintenance records. Tell your tenants in writing where to pay rent from the change date.

Step by step

  1. Read the contract: notice period, cancellation fees, and any fee for keeping a tenant they placed.
  2. Pick the new manager first so there is no gap. Request quotes from up to 3 on our city pages.
  3. Give written notice as the contract requires, and keep a copy.
  4. Hand-over list: security deposits, current rent ledger, leases and addenda, keys and codes, vendor contacts, maintenance and inspection records, any pending notices.
  5. Tell tenants in writing who the new manager is and how to pay rent from which date.
  6. Check the final statement and that all trust money was transferred.

Common questions

How do I switch property managers?

Check the notice period and any fees in your contract, choose the new manager, give written notice, and arrange the hand-over of deposits, leases, keys and records. Then notify tenants in writing of the new payment details.

How do I deal with a bad property management company?

Put your concerns in writing and ask for a fix with a deadline. If it doesn't improve, end the contract under its terms. For licensed brokers, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Real Estate.

Sources

Written by The Property Management Directory team. Last checked October 2026.