Unauthorized Tenant Squatting?

[Christian Malesic]

We had a situation recently that ended well, but got me thinking...

One of our 'better' tenants decided to break her lease and leave early. She gave plenty of notification and we negotiated an exit strategy. What we did not realize is that another lady had moved into the apartment a few months prior who was not authorized, meaning not on the lease and we were not aware she was there.

What really happened is the new lady wanted to stay. She completed our application, passed our screening, paid rent & security deposit and we signed a lease. We rented the place out with zero unpaid down days.

HOWEVER.... What if the tenant had moved out, but the unauthorized lady stayed behind (not on lease, no payment, etc.). Would we have to go through the long eviction process to get her out? Would she be considered a squatter? Thoughts?

[Ralph S.]

You have to evict once they are established. If you know their name, that's great, and if you don't, seek a lawyer, they'll probably advise you use "unknown occupant, et.al" or some such wording. The et.al. is important as it means all occupants, or some such thing. I've heard when you evict Jane Doe, and John Smith is an unauthorized tenant living with Jane, the Sheriff won't evict John or his possessions.