Lease is up 9/30. Not paying anyway. Should i evict($500.00+) or just hope she leaves

[Alison Decastro]

I have a "sometimes paying" tenant who hasn't paid July or Aug now.  Her lease is up 9/30.  If I evict it will take probably 6 weeks  and at least $500.00. 

I really just want her to leave, but I worry that she will stay after her lease is up. Is there any way to guard against her 'squatting'?

[Nicole A.]

I'd suggest two things:

1. Go ahead and start the eviction process now. Ask around and perhaps see if you can also do a money judgement/garnish wages.

2. In addition to the above, also go ahead and send her a letter to vacate (or whatever it's called in your area) stating that her lease ends on 9/30/2015 and you will not be renewing the lease. Reiterate that the unit needs to be vacated on that date and left in "broom clean" condition. 

Also include that she provide her new address so that you can mail any due security deposit to her. Obviously, she won't get any deposit back, but saying this will possibly get her to give you her new address so you can better go after her later for due funds (if you so decide it's worth it to do that).