A NON-house-broken dog came with my FIRST property!

[Michael Rodriguez]

I recently purchased a duplex with tenants and their current lease allows a dog. The dog is using the house as her personal litter-box. Under Ohio Law, I must honor the lease the tenants signed with the previous owner. Does anyone have advice on how I can remain on good terms with my tenants AND get the messaging across? They have 6 months remaining on their lease and there are original oak floors that are absorbing the smell of a dog boarding facility. Their deposit did transfer with the sale but I fear the urine damage might surpass the cost to refinish. Thanks for the help!

[Nicole A.]

The dog uses the house as its "litter box"? Is it part cat? lol JK

You need to send a notice to them asap. If they are causing damage to the property, it needs to be stopped asap. Did you notice this before you closed?

You could offer them to end the lease early or they immediately stop being lazy and care for the dog. This is completely a people issue of not dealing with their dog.

If they don't fix it, you could start eviction over it. Take pictures and videos of it. Is there a move-in condition sheet you got from the past landlord? 

You need to either try to get them to move out, or just somehow expect this as part of the cost and not renew their lease in 6 months. Tell them now you won't be renewing....send that notice in writing. Get to know your laws if you don't already.