Tenant is violating city code - what do I do?

Question

We received a letter in the mail from the City in which we own a rental property.

It's a letter of warning that they've received multiple complaints about the tenants' dog running around the neighborhood and chasing people.

This is a city code violation.

How should I handle this? If the tenant doesn't address the issue who is in trouble for this?

Waleep Alvi · Answer

The true deciding factor regarding ultimate responsibility would be the lease document. Here you will find all of the “shall and shall nots” for corrections of any and all code violations.

Alberto Furet · Answer

@Ryan Cooley I would forward the letter to your tenants and contact the city and let them know that it's a rental property and give them the tenant's contact info. Not your dog, not your problem.

Sharlene Mulchandani · Answer

I agree with what @Alberto Furet stated. I think the first step would be to notify your tenants of these violations and forward this letter to them. Also, letting the city know that the property is a rental should help save you from any fines from the city.

Theresa Harris · Answer

You can also tell them they are violating the lease (presumably you have a clause in there) and if they don't deal with it, then they need to find another place to live.  Remember eviction bans are for non-payment of rent, they do not protect tenants who violate the lease in other ways.

Also tell the tenants that animal control can come by and take the dog.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I would notify the renters of the code violation. I would let them know their dog could be impounded or they may be fined. I would then tell them it's a violation of their lease and that I will terminate their lease if it happens again.

Not my dog, but it is my property and I don't want my renters negatively impacting the community. Besides, renters that can't keep a dog on the property are more likely to damage the property or violate the lease in other ways. Don't let it go.

Steve Morris · Answer

What does your lease say?  If you've got documentation the tenant is creating danger for the surrounding residents, I'd give him a 72-hour (or whatever) notice to cure.

Tenant is violating city code - what do I do?

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