Just closed on first property, problem tenant

[Matt Blutowski]

I closed on my first duplex this week. Both units are filled and I have the leases.

One of the tenants was a real jerk when we did a final walkthrough, and I have witnessed on several occasions that there are two people living in the apartment and 1 small dog, although the lease states an occupancy of 1 with NO dog.

I don't want an immediate problem, and would prefer to avoid immediately having to deal with an eviction. Another alternative is to ask him to sign a new lease, with pet addendum and additional monthly fee. If they disagree, then I'll consider eviction.

Any advice?

[Joel Owens]

Before you closed you should have analyzed how long this tenant has been there and payment history.

If they pay on time and pay market rent and have been there a long time costs to recondition the property will be high and it will take awhile to get them out at the holidays with the court systems taking time off.

I would just moniter it for a little while and see how things go.If it's a small dog usually you don't have to worry unless a bite history exists with animal control.

If it's a big dog or aggressive breed you definitely want them out as you could be sued and held liable should you not take action and an incident happens.