Tenant backlash (tantrum)

[Rick Bassett]

Just curious how some of the other Landlords on BP handle tenants like this one.

We have a tenant who is a bit needy that has been gradually attempting to skirt by our lease conditions. Paying rent on the 3rd - 6th instead of the first, not get the required HVAC service contracts, not providing proof of renters insurance and a few other things.  

Well I drew them in line the other day when their check bounced (from a closed account) and they didn't promptly make good on it. Told them the Marshall was coming with Notice Quit and we would start the eviction process...etc. That got their attention and they had a replacement check to us in a hour. 

Fast forward 24 hours and they have sent us a modest list of problem items in the rental which are the first time being reported. One has merit and will be addressed the other 3 don't (like I want the deck stained) and probably won't be done.

I'm sure that this list is just a knee jerk reaction to being called on the carpet.

Obviously I'm not going to renew them when it comes up next year. 

Suggestions or your approach?

[Priscilla Z.]

Sorry for the headache, even though they come with being a landlord.  We were just dealing with a clogged toilet yesterday that was clogged by the tenant flushing things down.  He is being held accountable for the bill.

With that said, fix the issue that has merit as soon as possible and wait for the tenant to mess up again, which they will.  When they do, don't wait.  Begin the eviction process as soon as you are legally able to (I don't know how your state works).  Collect late fees, and collect eviction costs if it gets that far.  They will learn.

We have tenants who like to push it as far as they can, but we keep it simple.  On day 6 they get a three day notice....they know we aren't playing games.

If you are a good landlord and hold up your end of the lease they should do the same.