Unpaid rent and lease ending

[Kinnari Sanghavi]

Hello BP family

To cut the long story short I rented my condo to 3 individuals, 2 of 3 were less than ideal candidates with poor credit score (bad idea!!) Etc

The 2 tenants were late on rent almost constantly. Coming to the point the lease is coming to end next week and they have outstanding balance of over $3k including late fees (I know should have given the eviction notice the first month itself.. lesson learned)

They expect me to just withheld $500 from security deposit, so they can pay other bills and they will continue paying a small amount every month (so they say).  I don't trust them, they are incredibly rude, irresponsible and feel entitled

 I am really worried about them damaging the property and with everything happening it's nerve wracking. I plan on doing a video walkthrough with the 3rd tenant who is very responsible and has renewed the lease. My question is how do I hold them accountable for all the money they owe in back rent and damages if any, once they move out. Do I just keep the entire $2050 and cut my losses ( Massachusetts landlord here!)

They don't respond to calls, texts and don't care about communicating

Greatly appreciate the insight. Thank you

Be safe everyone!

[Colleen F.]

@Kinnari Sanghavi  make sure you send a notice of the deductions from the security deposit well within the timeframe of MA law and have proof you did so.   You can even show a balance owed if that is the case.  If you don't do this, it is the most significant way you can go wrong.  If they don't give a forwarding address in RI and most other states you just mail it to the rental and keep the unopened letter.