Tenant built structure on property and wont remove it

[Aundrea Newbern]

Hi All,
I just purchased a duplex in GA last week. One of my tenants is moving out in a couple of days. She built a storage shed in the backyard that was partially destroyed by Hurricane Matthew. She says the previous owner gave permission to build it but she can't provide proof. Also, she said she can't afford to remove it. She only put down a $400 security deposit. What would other landlords do about this?

[Kevin Siedlecki]

@Aundrea Newbern - That's something that had to be taken care of before closing. You must have noticed the destroyed shed when you walked through. I would have made the removal of the shed or a credit for that purpose a contingency for the purchase. If you didn't do that, then you signaled to the tenant, the seller, and anyone you ask for advice (indirectly, me), that the shed is not a major concern.