Advice needed...pets in a "no pet" lease agreement

[Sarah Shawver]

I could use some advice.  Tenant 7 months into a year lease moved in a cat. Lease is very clear about no pets.  Quit or cure notice has been sent, but tenant is really pushing back about wanting to keep the cat (offered additional rent, additional deposit, complaining etc...).  We've had bad experiences in the past with cats and are getting ready to rent the second unit in this building and really want to keep it all pet free.  

I wouldn't mind agreeing to a cash for keys situation to avoid us having to go through the eviction process.  Thoughts?

Should we just over look this for the next 5 months and not renew?  If so, how do we regain any respect if we go back on our quit or cure notice?

Thanks

[Dennis M.]

So the tenant wIllfully illegally brings a cat in knowing darn well it’s prohibited in the lease then when given a stern written warning in a quit notice they still refuse and are justifying themselves ... it’s time to file for eviction . Do not reward this defIant behavior and offer cash for keys , that is a hail Mary last resort . iN the sprirIt of tryIng to save money In an evIctIon , I’d make one last phone call to the tenant and explain that you are going to march down to the magistrates office and throw them out unless the animal is gone by the following day . If it’s not follow through and file . You can always stop the process if need be