All Forum Posts by: Kathy Johnson

In California, the notice goes the calendar 60 days instead of whole month like some other states.

If that is all he said and he didn't ask a question, I wouldn't get into a discussion about it at this point.  He hasn't seen the rental.  He hasn't passed any pre-screening about income, previous evictions or number of intended occupants.  It is premature to argue about the 'service animal' at this point.  Do you have a pre-screening question list?  If you respond at all, ask him your pre-screening questions.  He may fail basic screening and you would be wasting time on the service dog issue.  If the dog isn't a service dog yet, then it isn't a service dog yet.

Well, don't get in the middle of it.  If they ask you to changes locks etc, tell them you need something from court because legally you can't lock someone on the lease out.  Their recourse is through the court and police if someone wants someone locked out.  Also, they all still owe you the rent.

If it is simply swapping out two fixtures, a handyman with experience doing that kind of work would be fine.  We change our own, but if you are uncomfortable doing that, hire handyman and watch him/her do the job.   

Also, there are instructions for this on homedepot online.

Is the boyfriend on the rental agreement/lease?  If not, you need to secure the rental and wait for the executor to contact you.

Tenants who want to negotiate the late fees, are the tenants who plan to pay late.  The late fees don't matter to timely tenants.

Make sure the tenant is keeping on top of fleas in the new unit also.  Do you have a pet deposit to cover?

We only deduct damages (past due rent owed, late fees owed, patching hole punched in wall, unpaid garbage bill that city will attach to property, etc)

In California, you are limited to 2x monthly rent for the security deposit unless the place is furnished or the tenant has water filled furniture (water bed.)  Any money collected above the first months rent is considered by the state to be security deposit even if you call it last months rent when you collect it.  I usually collect it as soon as the tenant is approved and is signing the lease.  

Here is a link to a California consumer affairs document outlining landlord and tenant duties/responsibilities: http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/catenant.pdf

In addition to Brandon's steps, let them know how long the deck needs to be clear of things/usage in order for it to dry properly.