When to keep last month's rent?

[Megan R.]

Hi everyone, I could use some help because i dont know anything about  about rentals and my mom is having some issues.  My mother has her first tenant and the one year lease expired today (sept 1st).  Her tenant asked her on August 1st if another year lease could be signed and paid her the rent for august.  On August 14th the tenant informed her that she would be moving on the 31st and did not want to renew anymore.  A friend of my moms with rental experience has told her that she can keep the last months rent that was paid upon lease signing because the tenant didn't give her 30 days notice.  I have no idea if this is accurate and i dont want my mother getting into any trouble or being taken advantage of.  Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Jake Thompson]

It's always good to consult an attorney to be safe, but has she considered keeping the amount of rent owed for strictly the days the tenant is there and pro rating the rest back to them? Sometimes it is better to just get the matter resolved quick and move on to the next tenant. How much would she be spending on an attorney to try to keep that rent? Speaking with an attorney may still be the correct answer, I don't know. You could also talk to a local property manager as they should be able to give you some free advice.