What to do about hoarder tenants ?

[Erin Auman]

What’s the best way to deal with hoarder tenants? We’ve already started the eviction process because they haven’t paid rent. We did an inspection today, and it’s much worse than we thought. Should we contact any other agencies, like Health and Human Services or the Department of Families? Or just deal with cleanup after they are finally gone?

[Ashley Kehr]

Oh no! My friend just had this problem and it cost them thousands to have it removed. Hopefully if they love their stuff they will take it with them. You could offer them cash for keys with a twist. Offer to pay for a moving truck for them to load their stuff into. You'll at least save on movers if they do it themselves and dumpster fees. It might give them some incentive to move out prior to the eviction. If they have children you could threaten to call Child Protective services. I really hope kids aren't living in that situation though. Best of luck to you!