Columbus, OH · Member since 2015 · 41 posts · 11 votes
I recently purchased a duplex with tenants and their current lease allows a dog. The dog is using the house as her personal litter-box. Under Ohio Law, I must honor the lease the tenants signed with the previous owner. Does anyone have advice on how I can remain on good terms with my tenants AND get the messaging across? They have 6 months remaining on their lease and there are original oak floors that are absorbing the smell of a dog boarding facility. Their deposit did transfer with the sale but I fear the urine damage might surpass the cost to refinish. Thanks for the help!
Rental Property Investor · Baltimore County Maryland and Tampa Florida · Member since 2013 · 2k+ posts · 2k+ votes
10y
The dog uses the house as its "litter box"? Is it part cat? lol JK
You need to send a notice to them asap. If they are causing damage to the property, it needs to be stopped asap. Did you notice this before you closed?
You could offer them to end the lease early or they immediately stop being lazy and care for the dog. This is completely a people issue of not dealing with their dog.
If they don't fix it, you could start eviction over it. Take pictures and videos of it. Is there a move-in condition sheet you got from the past landlord?
You need to either try to get them to move out, or just somehow expect this as part of the cost and not renew their lease in 6 months. Tell them now you won't be renewing....send that notice in writing. Get to know your laws if you don't already.
Real Estate Agent · Bloomfield Hills, MI · Member since 2014 · 117 posts · 30 votes
10y
I would do a safety inspection and bring the damage to the attention of the tenant. Tell them they may be evicted if the dog is not house broken and continues to damage the property. Pets are ok in the lease, not the destruction of your rental. Contact an experienced RE attorney, a 30 minute phone call should give you all the info needed to proceed legally and protect your investment.