Tenant will likely destroy your property prior to being evicted

Flipper/Rehabber · Bloomfield CT · Member since 2020 · 1k+ posts · 408 votes

Tenant will likely destroy your property prior to being evicted, what can a landlord do? They of course can take photos before and later sue the tenant in court for damages but might be unlikely to collect anything. So what some viable alternatives?

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Eric Gerakos

Investor · Costa Mesa, CA · Member since 2016 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes

The best alternative is to not buy cheap, crapbox properties in the midwest that will attract an undesirable tenant base.

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Eric Gerakos
Investor · Costa Mesa, CA · Member since 2016 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
1y
The best alternative is to not buy cheap, crapbox properties in the midwest that will attract an undesirable tenant base.
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Ke Nan Wang
Developer · St. Augustine, FL · Member since 2018 · 311 posts · 384 votes
1y
Not legal or professional advices, just what I would do in your case:
That's why eviction is always our last resort. We try with the following but our history with the tenants matter a lot. Therefore an experienced PM knows how to deescalate and inexperienced landlord usually failed and blow things out of proportion. It's a very fine line to walk on. The agent must be firmed but reasonable. However, in the end, if the tenant is not dealing in good faith, then eviction is the only way forward.
Other alternatives before the eviction would be:
1. let them break the lease and out at the end of the month. If they told me that's the option they would like to proceed, I would put that in a written agreement and have all parties signed.
2. Let them break the lease and when they vacate the property, give their full/partial deposit back (cash for keys lite version)
3. Let them break the lease, when they vacate the property, give their deposit back plus some additional cash that makes sense to me (cash for keys heavy version)
If they agreed to those, signed the paperwork and then when the day approaches, they still show no signs of moving, then it's time to go to the court. Most damages to properties are cosmetic (drywall, paint and flooring) and doesn't cost much to fix them with a few exception if they clogged the drain, break any drain pumps and damage your major appliances (be financially prepared to repair/replace them if broken)
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Adam BartomeoBusiness Member
Real Estate Broker · Cape Coral, FL · Member since 2015 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
1y
It sounds like you may only have a small amount of experience with this. Over the years we have gone through a LOT of evictions, 100+. We find that the majority of wear and tear was done well before the eviction was started and that the largest concern is the items that have to be removed.
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Mike D.
Investor · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2014 · 208 posts · 137 votes
1y
Ain't jack you can do about it and any good landlord factors it in as an expense. I disagree completely that C class properties in the Midwest are crap. Know what you're buying: more work than B and A with better cashflow.
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Benjamin AakerPro Member
Rental Property Investor · Brandon, SD · Member since 2015 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
1y
A better way to have stated it would be, "Don't by cheap crapbox properties anywhere." Also, great tenant screening is needed. Set expectations right away and stick to them.
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Mackaylee BeachPro Member
Real Estate Agent · Kansas City, MO · Member since 2020 · 1k+ posts · 492 votes
1y
One option is to require a larger security deposit upfront, which can help cover potential damages. Additionally, landlords can conduct regular inspections to catch issues early and address them before they escalate. Offering incentives for tenants to maintain the property, such as a small rent discount for keeping the premises in good condition, can also encourage better behavior. Another strategy is to establish clear and open communication with tenants, creating a relationship built on trust and respect, which can reduce the likelihood of property damage. Finally, investing in landlord insurance can provide an extra layer of financial protection against severe damage caused by tenants.
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Patrick O'SullivanBusiness Member
Property Manager · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2024 · 527 posts · 201 votes
1y
@James McGovern There’s definitely a real risk of property damage during or prior to an eviction, but there are some proactive strategies landlords can take to reduce the chances of it happening:
1. Cash for Keys – As others have mentioned, offering a small financial incentive for tenants to leave the property voluntarily can often be more cost-effective than pursuing a full eviction and dealing with potential damages.
2. Relationship Management – Sometimes just keeping communication open and professional can de-escalate a situation. A tenant who feels heard is less likely to act out destructively.
3. Frequent Inspections – Regular property checks (within the bounds of local laws) help you catch issues early and let the tenant know that upkeep is being monitored.
4. Tenant Screening – Solid screening up front makes a big difference. Past behavior is one of the best indicators of future actions.
5. Expect the Occasional Loss – As much as we all want to avoid damage, setting aside reserves and mentally preparing for a few bumps along the way can help keep emotions out of decisions.
It’s not always possible to prevent bad outcomes, but these steps can tip the odds in your favor.
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