Tenant moved out without paying

[Kenny Luna]

I decided not to renew my tenants lease and gave them a 6 month notice. At the end they moved out and didn’t pay their last months rent, late fee and portion of electric bill. They also left a bunch of construction items in the patio, which the sanitation department does not discard.  I still have their security deposit which I can use towards the owed rent, and luckily nothing was damaged in the home. But I’m still left with an unpaid balance and may have to pay to have a service truck throw their things out. Ive tried contacting tenant numerous times but no response. 

What would you do?  

[Theresa Harris]

For the electric bill it often goes with the tenant, not the home.  Check for your area and if it is tied to the tenant, don't pay it.  Yes you can use the deposit for unpaid rent after you deduct expenses for any cleaning and repairs.  Once you are done, send an itemized list to them at the last known address (yours) using registered mail.  If they are having their mail forwarded, they will get it. If not, keep the unopened envelop once it is returned as proof that you sent it.

Take photos of before and after.