Need to raise rent upon yearly inspection findings

[Alicia Lopez]

Hi There, 

I am new to bigger pockets. I am a rookie property manager wanting to manage our rentals myself now. Hoping to get some guidance on my issue. After doing my yearly inspections. I found that tenants were not on their own disposing of trash like they said they would and also have rodent issues because of it. I mentioned in a text that I would be raising the rent to accomodate trash service and pest control. They insisted they would order the services on their own if they could NOT have rent raised. I gave them a chance... 

Now I am here (lesson learned) need to know how to send them a notice. I need to address what needs to change and also address that there is going to be a rent increase to accomodate the services. I have heard of fix or quit. I am in California. Has anyone had to do this before? If so what are the steps. 

Also if anyone has any cheat websites that have the proper forms with proper notice deadlines for California I would greatly appreciate the resource. Thank you!

[Nathan Gesner]

I believe you're making a mistake. Rather than raise the rent to compensate you for the mess, you should give them notice of non-renewal and move them out. They are unlikely to get better and the rodents can cause additional damage that a rent increase won't cover.

You can purchase "Every Landlord's Legal Guide - California Edition" from NOLO. That's the best single resource for practical advice and the state laws. You can also consider joining the American Apartment Owners Association. It's pretty cheap and includes forms, training, and other resources.