Tenant Went Silent After Signing Lease
Tenant signed a lease with me to start on 09/01. As soon as it was signed, 08/12, the tenant went silent. I've tried reaching out several times by phone, text, email with no response. First just as a simple welcome and introduce myself, coordinate security deposit payment, asking if they'd like to see the property prior. Then just to get a simple response. No money has been paid and the lease only states it needs to be paid prior to getting keys. I'm getting worried and not sure my options. Am I stuck just waiting to see if he finally responds and pays by 09/01? Can I move on and find another tenant? Obviously waiting is not ideal with the mortgage due 09/01 but I don't want to find myself with legal issues either. Appreciate any advice.
Most Popular Reply
#3 Managing Your Property Contributor
If they signed the lease, but didn't give you a deposit within a set amount of time (usually 24 hours), then let them know the lease is null and void as you never received the deposit. Then start looking for another tenant. Do not hand out keys until you get the first month's rent and make sure all utilities are in their name. Also as part of the lease make sure that they know the deposit is non-refundable should they fail to move in at the start of the lease. Once they move in, it becomes the damage deposit.