Late Rent and Hasn't been in apartment in Chicago

[Deisy P.]

Tenant has not been in apartment for three days. It's her and her two kids plus an unidentified male who ended up just living there. I couldn't prove it. Other tenants including the neighbors had already filed complaints about them. It has been her first month. She didn't pay the rent on time. It's late so far two days. I e-mailed her and no response. She hasn't been at the apartment either. I'm really thinking that she's not coming back. If that's the case, what do I do with all their stuff? In the lease, I have it stipulated there will be a late fee of 5% if not submitted by the 5th day. I'm going to give her until the 5th of the month but then if she doesn't show up, I don't know what to do. I know I'm being premature but I want to be ready. This is the first time this has ever happened to me. I've been the owner for almost 3 years.

[Chris B.]

Follow the laws in your area regarding eviction.  These usually involve sending out a 5 day notice - quit or pay to start with.  You may as well start with this if you can't work something out with the tenant.  Getting touch with the tenant is preferable and if email doesn't work, call, text, knock on the door, send a letter.  Email alone is not sufficient.  Try multiple options.  Concurrently, look up your local abandonment laws.  She may come back in a week or two or maybe not.  Maybe she took a 2 week vacation with the rent money.  It could be any reason.  Follow both avenues.