Tenant with mouse traps toxic to pets

[Alice Saunders]

I purchased a duplex and I live in one side. I have been rehabbing the property inclusive of upgrades like central AC. I also noticed mice and hired a professional exterminator who successfully removed most of the mice (mostly gone). They used non- toxic sticky pads and filling holes in the walls. I am still having them come for repeat visits to ensure completion of the job.

My renter was already in the property when I took possession. I asked that no toxic anti- rodent products be used as I have cats and discussed that they could cause toxicity if my cats caught a mouse.

I did not put the request in writing.

This past week my young cat became rapidly ill within a few hours and died from what appeared to the symptoms common of Bromethalin. I found traps containing this substance on the rental side but I do not have a toxicity report from a vet (I was too distraught to ask for one).

I removed the toxic traps, I do not trust my renter,  and I am uncomfortable living with a person who violated my request. I can’t prove the cat died from toxicity but even putting a pets in harms way is completely unacceptable.

Are there grounds for non- renewal of lease even if toxic traps as a prohibited item were not on the contract?