Tenants won't ever answer the door

[Colleen F.]

Three 20 something's  living in the house and  they never answer the door.  I have had 3 separate instances where myself or another tenant knocked on the door and   they would not answer. These were all for various causes.  This last instance was over a blocking vehicle in front of two garages. They would not answer door, or multiple phone calls.  For this instance we issued a lease violation but there were 6 cars and I was ready to have a welfare check done, it was loud door knocking.  Any insight?  Have you had this happen and what have you done? They pay on time  and vehicles we can tow (but should not have to).  I am having trouble though with the behavior.  Any out of the box ideas out there?

[Brian Hunt]

Not sure what the law requires on notice of inspection in Rhode Island, but if it were me, I'd write up a written notice for inspection 24 hours from the time you intend on delivering it.  If they don't comply with the inspection, it's grounds for terminating the lease.  If they do, walk around, see how many people are in there, and tell them what you need to tell them.  I'd have the vehicles towed lickety split, no questions asked.  One thing we always stress to our tenants is always talk to us, you talk to us and tell us what's going on, we'll be far more understanding than if you avoid us.  If you avoid us, you will get what the law requires from us and that's it.