Tenant is late on rent and avoiding contact

[John Guinta]

Good morning from Chicago,

I am an owner/occupant of a Tri-plex.

I'm a 26 year old kid and this is my first property and first year as a landlord. So far so good and a really positive experience up until my first hiccup this week.

My two tenants have always been very good about paying rent and keeping me informed if they will be away for extended periods.

One of my tenants is late for the first time and is being non communicative as to her issue. I haven't seen her or her vehicle in at least a week and her daughter is there some days all by herself or gone all day and only comes back for a short time at night.

Last night I posted a note on the door stating that they are past due with the total amount due plus the late fee and to pay in full today.

The paper was off the door this morning.

I've made several phone calls all going straight to her voicemail.

Realizing that I've already waited too long to enforce this, if it's not paid today I was going to post a 3 day notice to pay in full or vacate.

How do I proceed with that process legally outside of simply notifying them with ink and paper? 

Living in the building affords some good opportunities but can also complicate some systems, I feel.

I've already contacted my realtor with the situation and desire to start showing the apartment ASAP.

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From this scenario what should I ACTUALLY be doing?

Should I text the tenant and do an inspection of the unit?

Should I confront the daughter when she is there?

Of course I am trying to do this right and as professional as I am able.

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I am looking forward to the advice and information!

Thank you!

(This is my debut BP post) 

[Nicole A.]

Nope, no need to continually contact them to see what is going on. They got your posted letter. Continue to follow the law regarding process of eviction until you either get full payment or have to evict.

The paperwork does all the talking for you! And if they aren't responding, then they clearly don't want to talk to you. Just continue to go about your day. They might talk to you soon. Might not. Either way, be cordial if you see them pass by or approach you.