Help with holdover tenants

[Tiffany Tan]

Hello everyone,I could use some advice regarding my situation. 

I have two tenants whose leases are set to end in two days. One of them has just expressed a desire to stay until November 1st and is willing to forfeit the security deposit.Option one is to trust them and allow them to stay the extra two weeks. However, there are potential risks. I don't know if they have any outstanding balances with the electricity and gas companies (as it's an owner-occupied duplex, I can't join the landlord program on either of those utility companies). Additionally, I'm uncertain about the unit's condition, and I might need the security deposit for any necessary repairs.

The second option is to renew the lease and extend it until November 1st, requesting payment for the two additional weeks. This would likely involve reapplying for Certificate of Occupancy. The risk here is that it might complicate the eviction process if needed since I would have accepted partial payment. Furthermore, my mortgage terms only allow for long-term rentals, and I don't want to breach those rules.I would greatly appreciate any insights you can provide on which option might be best. Thank you!

*I am in Philadelphia if that matters...