Tenant requested to be refunded a day after moving in...

[Cameron Feldhaus]

I have a tenant in my building that just moved into his unit yesterday after signing the lease agreement and wiring the deposit and first months rent in the amount of $6,000.

This morning I received a text from the same tenant stating that there has been a death in his immediate family, and needs to book a flight back to China (where he is from). He is requesting a refund in the amount of $5,750 out of the $6,000.

How would you respond to this tenant? Would you remit a refund in the amount of $5,750 per his request, or would you not refund anything at all? Let me know your thoughts and opinions on this subject matter.

Warmly.

[Thomas S.]

I would inform him that he is responsible or the rent until you find a replacement tenant. His personal problems are not your problem. Chances are you will likely not hear from him again or receive any additional rent. Keep all his money and look for a new tenant. Once you find one return any excess money from the 6K.

He signed a lease, hold him to it.