Bought Phila. Duplex that Doesn't Have a Rent Suitability License

[Joe White]

I just bought a Duplex in Philadelphia and the previous owner never bothered getting a Rent Suitability License, nor had the property lead swiped.

Our new single mom tenant isn't paying her rent and we gave her notice to vacate (she is month to month). She has indicated that she doesn't plan on vacating, nor does she intend on paying rent.

She says she has free legal advice, which I believe to be true. She proactively asked when her eviction court date is as she appears savvy to the system. I believe she will come to court (no shame in her game!) and might have enough legal assistance to get herself an advantage.

I'm nervous, as in PA she can get every dime she ever paid in rent back if the owner never got the Rent Suitability Certificate. In fact the judge can give her up to 3 times that amount.

I'm wondering who will owe her these amounts - I'm assuming I will as the current owner. That will be devastating financially and going after the previous owner is useless. He's not only a slumlord; but he's broke. There were over $30k in judgments against the property when I purchased it. 

Thoughts?

[David Avetisyan]

I suggest you begin the process of acquiring all licenses necessary in order to show that you are acting in good faith and seek legal assistance with the eviction process. 

Just because a judge is allowed to do something doesn't necessarily mean he/she is actually going to do it - especially when you have a bad tenant.

To your success!