Question with an Eviction issue

[Edward Dandrea]

So I’m facing my first eviction of a tenant.

He lost his job lied I got him two other jobs he quit then lost a job recently and was lying stringing me along.

I started the rent demand and notice and had him served. Last week he turned in the key because he just leaves the door unlocked as he comes and goes.

Is that grounds enough to just lock him out or do I have to proceed with court?

Ie.

he turned in the key so I considered him gone and thought he abandoned the ratty old couch and mattress that are still there?

Would I be in trouble for that or is there legal precedent to consider the key turned in as he is gone ?

[Kevin Sobilo]

@Edward Dandrea, why did you accept the key? One could say that is tacid approval for leaving the property unsecured.

Be more formal and clear. You claim the tenant is "stringing you along" and Im sure that is true, but you also have the ability to be VERY clear with your communication and approach.

If a tenant turned their key in with me and I wanted them out. I would have them sign something stating that. Then its 100% clear.

If a tenant is having financial issues, I would be clear about what they need to do keep me from starting an eviction. If they give a "story" require them to substantiate it. I just had a tenant's rent payment get lost in the mail. I required them to show me proof they went and requested a refund of the lost money order. They did that and I knew it wasn't a "story".

I think at this point you probably need to go through the court process.