Terminated lease, months from move out date. Lameduck Tenants

[Vincent Plant]

My tenant called me and said her boyfriend left her. He moved out and took all her money and she can’t reach him.

These tenants have been flaky for a while now even before the split, so my plan was to not renew their lease which expires at the end of August anyway.

I told her I’m sorry to hear that but I sent her a notice that the lease is being terminated and the property should be cleared out by the end date (8/31).

So, they’re behind on most of the rent for July right now, and they will still owe August.

The boyfriend emailed me separately basically saying he moved out took all of his stuff and it’s not his problem. I replied and reminded him that his name is on the lease too and he has the obligation to meet the terms.

What’s the best process from now until 8/31 to get them out, and get the rent paid. And if they don’t pay (which I feel will be the case) do I pursue their past due $$ legally?

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Vincent Plant:

What’s the best process from now until 8/31 to get them out, and get the rent paid. And if they don’t pay (which I feel will be the case) do I pursue their past due $$ legally?

You won't get the rent. She will stay there until she's forced out. I would start the eviction process by serving her with a 3-day Notice to Pay or Quit (or whatever your State requires). That puts her on notice that you're not waiting until 8/31 to deal with this. When you serve this, make it clear to her that she can either move out on her own and be forgiven what she owes, or she can be kicked out the hard way. Most tenants will leave when they see you mean business. If she doesn't, then you can either proceed with the eviction or just let it go and wait for her to leave in August.