How to: Not renewing lease on renter in owner occupied duplex

[Mali R. Diez]

Hi all, looking for some guidance as a first time landlord.

I'm closing on my first duplex in CT next week. One unit is vacant (that will be occupied by me) and the other unit has a renter whose lease is up in Sept/30.

I do not wish no renew the lease for this renter as I'd like to make some renovations on that unit before renting it out again. The house is in general good condition, but apt is rented under market value.

The seller refused to give notice to the current renter, they also refuse to request the renter to clear their stuff from the attic, basement and garage, all of them currently being used as additional storage (even though none of this is stipulated in the lease agreement).

I would like to give notice to the renter, as soon as I take possession of the house that I will not be renewing their lease. What's the best way to about this, as I can already anticipate the tenant will be less willing to cooperate.

No sure if this is relevant, but for context, the unit is current rented with Section8 program.

I appreciate your input and advise.

[Scott M.]

Not meaning to sound like a smart a$$ but the best way to give them notice is to give them notice.  Lease will expire in less than 30 days after you buy it so once you buy it you inform then the lease will not be renewed  Assuming you have the Sec. 8 contact info you inform the Sec. 8 office/worker of the same info.  Chances are they will not be out but at least you have given notice and then you can take the next steps on both fronts, with the tenant and Sec. 8.

Next deal, make this stuff part of the PA.  And if you don't know it at the time you write the PA then make it part of the inspection contingency.  You should have had all of this data by then.  Great lesson to learn for future deals.