Tenants refuse to sign new agreement

[Brian L.]

I just bought a building in April w/ 4 residential units. All tenants were on month-to-month agreements under the previous ownership. All contracts expired after I took over the building. Now 2 of the 4 tenants refuse to sign the new rental agreement. I have not increased their rent -- the only thing that is different is that I will not be paying for their utilities. What are my options? The building is in L.A..

[Ryan Pyle]

Terminate their month to month lease. In Ohio that would mean giving them a 30 day notice that their tenancy has been terminated and they have to move. If they don't move in 30 days then I would evict them. And yes, they owe you rent through the very last day they are there.

This is a very important point in your ownership of this building. Are you going to let the tenants run the show or are you in charge? If they do not comply with your rules, then they can not live there. No hard feelings, just business. If you put your tail between your legs and say OK then the tenants will know they are dealing with a mouse.