Can/ should I sue tenant

[Al Richards]

Good morning Bigger Pockets,
So here's my situation: I have it a woman who has moved out without paying her last months rent big surprise but has left a large amount of personal items as well as damage to the rental. I have some knowledge of the eviction practices in my state but none on possibly suing after the fact by the way I'm in New Jersey. I'd like to know my options and if my only resort is small claims court. I estimate with back rent damage and storage fees to be about $4,000 Owed. Any suggestions are appreciated.

[Darren Sager]

Where in NJ are you? The courts views on landlord/tenant disputes are more favorable in certain counties than others. As a friend of mine who has over 200 rentals told me they don't call it Tenant court because they favor landlords.

IF you've got all the documentation I would definitely take them to court. Its not like it costs all that much. Plus you can get back court fees. If they don't show up you win automatically. I've seen that happen a number of times.

Next time you look for a tenant screen them properly to reduce your risk of this happening again. I like to use National Tenant Network for screening. They do a great job in finding out all you need to know about someone before you sign the lease with them.