Help!!! My tenant told me they saw a rat OUTSIDE of the unit

[Ricardo P.]

Hey Guys, 

  So I have an older couple(mid to late 50’s) I inherited from a purchase. They currently rent out a 1 bed 1 bath unit with 5 small dogs.  I was verbally told they have seen A long rat climb up a specific tree OUTSIDE of their unit. So I decided to cut down that tree and dispose of it. The tenant was very happy I acted quickly and haven’t heard anything else just yet. This rat was seen outside of their unit 10-15 feet away from their rear door. 

These are all single unit cottages a total of 8 on the property. NO SHARING WALLS with anyone. There is alot of cats who hang out in the area. Did I also mention they seem to be hoarders (So much unwanted junk in the rear of their unit by where they saw the rat) I’ve told them verbally plenty of times I wanted everything trashed since their lease states they are to keep the property clean and sanitary clear from any debris,trash,recycling ect. 

Any suggestions on what to do now? 

I have pictures of the mess they have in the rear of their unit. I have pics of them leaving their doors widely open for hours. 

I have a solid feeling they are going to try to hit me with a “We have Rats in the unit now” 

Any help or suggestions would be highly appreciated.... Thank you!! 

[Matthew Paul]

Tell them the rats are living in your junk , Also tell them if its not removed in 30 days , you will dispose of it and bill them