Inherited Property - Nonpaying Tenants

[Jeremy Shepherd]

I recently inherited a single family home from my grandfather that has tenants whom have lived in this house for several years. My grandfather informed me that the tenants have not paid rent in seven months. Rent is $400/month therefore making them about $2,600 behind.

My question is should I even bother with having them sign a lease with me (currently they are month to month...actually living free) or start the eviction process? They were taking advantage of my grandfather because he is 90 years old. My theory is there is no better predictor of future behavior than past behavior. I have other rentals, but never had a situation like this. Looking for input. Thanks.

[Stephen E.]

@Jeremy Shepherd Its funny you say past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior. I will never forget seeing a collections guy make a presentation to a landlord group once and he just looked at the crowd and that is exactly what he said. It made quite an impression on me. He just conveyed this world weary weight of experience. That comment renewed my efforts in screening tenants and informs the way that I respond to tenant issues. But like everyone says, this is a clear case and your instincts are correct. They must go. Taking advantage of a 90 year old man is reprehensible in my view. Aside from the debt these people are of low moral character and you should not have them on the property.