Tenant signed one year lease and is Breaking in 6 months

[Trevor Rutherford]

Tenant signed a one year lease and breaking it in 6 months.  Says her son was suppose to move in with her but never showed up.  According to what she put on her Rental app. She seems to be able to afford it herself, but says she can't.  Says she is moving back in with family.  Is there any way to make it stick to her record. 

[Marcia Maynard]

Your lease should have a break lease clause, so review that with her and talk with her about a move-out plan.

People will move when they want to move, lease or no lease. We don't bother with long-term leases and prefer month-to-month rental agreements. Less headaches.

Make sure you get her intent to move in writing. Whenever a tenant indicates to us their need to move, we review with them our move-out procedures. This includes having them fill out a "Notice to Vacate" form and returning it to us. This is an official notice and includes the date they will return possession of the unit back to us.

As soon as we know their exit date, we can put in motion steps to find another suitable tenant. Some tenants can help by giving you leads.

Make sure you remain professional and polite. Be firm, but fair... with her and with yourself. Know the landlord-tenant laws for your jurisdiction and abide by them. 

It's unfortunate when things like this happen, but it's part of the business. You can choose to work with her or against her. If you choose to work with her, the transition is likely to be easier for all parties.

Good luck!