New tenants complain about everything and threaten

[Megan M Robinson]

Hi everyone! This is my first post here. I searched the forum and couldn't find anything just like this.. My husband and I are on our third rental and we have had great tenants so far. We recently purchased a duplex, rehabbed and leased out. We thoroughly screened the new UP tenants and they had good references (Although I should have know when their last landlord let me know they ALWAYS keep him updated when there is an issue.) They only moved in on May 1st and we have been over there 8 times. In 16 days. One time was legitimate (the sewage backed up into the basement and we had someone come out within an hour.) Some examples of reasons they have called: they broke the handle off of the hot water nozzle in the tub (three times), they saw an ant, they saw a centipede, they broke the toilet paper holder, they asked us to install a new handle on the stove, they couldn't get a window open, they discovered old paint on several of the outlets in the house and asked that I replace them all. I know what you're thinking. "Why do they entertain these people?" Well, when they call DAILY, they say things like "We have no hot water since we broke the nozzle and can't bathe us or our children," Or "I'm afraid one of our children will get bit by this bug that is in the bathroom (the centipede)." Anyway, I went to their home and replaced an outlet that wasn't working and I overheard them talking about how they have sued a past landlord, and a slough of other people. They are obviously sue happy and now we're terrified. I texted them that I would be back the next day to replace the outlets they were complaining about that had old paint on them and they wrote back that he would call the building inspector. I'm at my wit's end with these people and it's only been 2 weeks into a one year lease. I don't have any option in the lease to get rid of them unless they don't pay me/ quiet enjoyment, etc. We are in Ohio. Also, I'm pretty sure these people have no intention on leaving, even if we allowed them out of the lease without consequence. I think they WANT to find a way to sue us. Help!