tenant move-in issues

[Daniel Miller]

I have just rented my father's home to a new tenant (Thank You all, very much, for all your advice and comments!! I checked them out thoroughly, and they look like excellent tenants).

The tenants would like to start moving in a couple of weeks before the lease actually starts. Since the house is currently sitting empty, I don't see any problem with that, and they are giving a generous security deposit anyway, they are going to hand me security deposit and first-month rent this weekend, well before they would be moving in.

What issues should I be aware of, if they are moving stuff into the house before the lease is in effect? I'm going to write to my insurance agent to make sure that the property insurance will be in effect, but I'm pretty sure it is in effect now anyway. They have a renter's policy for their own goods. Are there any traps here that I should be aware of?

[Account Closed]

I wouldn't do it. I would not let any tenant occupy or move personal belonging into a property without everything spelled out and in writing. Especially two weeks early. "Moving in" is the same as occupying, IMO. Change the date of the lease to their move-in date and either prorate the rent for those days or charge them a sum that works for both of you. Or say no. Every day they use the property is a day that should be accounted for in writing. I know this sounds unfriendly but renting is a business. You haven't received the deposit and first rent payment yet, so you don't really know if they are even good for their first payment. How are you letting them pay for deposit and first month's rent? If you let them pay with a check and they start moving in a few days later...and the check doesn't clear.....I'm sure you can see how this could be problem.

BTW, there is no such thing as a generous security deposit. It's not a favor to you. It's security for performance....from a stranger. Treat it as such. :)