Problem tenants gave 30 day notice! How hard should I push to get last month's rent?

[Johann Jells]

My inherited problem tenants (loud, bathroom floods, calling city authorities on me) have given notice. I'm thrilled they're leaving, I was considering offering them a few grand to go.

But they have not paid June rent. My wife the social worker says don't push it, it might make the difference of them actually getting a new place. I've read here some landlords will pay to get a place back in decent condition from problem tenants on moveout. Is she right? With 4 kids I'll bet there's a decent amount of damage.

When you file an eviction and the tenant moves out before action, does the eviction still go on their record or does it become a small claims issue?

[Bill S.]

It's a tough call. I would remind them of it and see what they do and say. You can always show it as an amount owed on the security deposit accounting. Give them 30 days to pay and then sue them in small claims court for the balance when they don't pay. Bottom line is you can't get blood from a stone. I would do this for the learning experience.

Since you were planning to pay them to leave, even if you don't get June rent you will be money ahead.

In your shoes, I would let it ride if they don't pay as requested. I would then do the SD accounting and try and collect.

Be sure to follow the lease and your state SD accounting laws and provide them with a written accounting within the time frame required. You absolutely must do this.