Advice - Tenant Moved Out
Had a tenant since April 2004, she moved out 8/31. Lease is untiil 4/05. I want to make sure we are doing the right things first. She was expecting us to use sec. deposit for rent until she gets a renter which isn't the way to do it. Sent letter and now 5 day notice, then we will be taking her to Small Claims. Is this the right way to go about it? Thank you.
Many states have a different set of rules for evicting tenants when the property is classified as "abandoned". I don't know what illinois laws are but in Iowa we are able to evict much more quickly.
What is it with Tenants who think that the security deposit is "catch-up" rent while they shirk their responsibilities.
First off Vicki, make sure that you have firm resolve about this. The tenant will most likely call and *itch and moan, but remember that the tenant made a commitment to you and they HAVE to honor their commitments.
The good news is that she is gone, so theoretically you can go through a quick eviction and re-rent while you are sueing the first tenant. I'd garnish her wages if it comes to that. Take lots of pictures of the property if there is any damage. You need to start doing research on small claims if you're not going to hire a lawyer.
Good luck.
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