New member - NoVa/DC

[Doug Koeser]

Hello. My name is Doug. I'm new to Bigger Pockets and heard about the site through my neighbor. I live in Northern VA outside of DC and also own and rent a condo about 15 miles away that i have rented for approximately 6 years. it's been relatively painless as far as being a landlord over the years until recently. There was a pipe that burst which flooded the unit with 3-4" of water. The HOA will be taking care of most of the damage except the hardwood floors because they say they are only responsible to have the unit to original standards. I have to go through my insurance for the hardwood floors.

That is not my only problem. I have renters who are hoarders and extremely messy. My appliances are pretty much ruined and the bathroom has pink mold in the shower. They are almost always late with the rent, but do pay the late fee each time they are late. They did not pay in Jan until the day the flood occurred and gave me a check which they put a stop payment on. We agreed that they only owed for the days they were in the condo as the unit is not livable. They still have not paid and it is Jan 26th. They occasionally respond to emails, calls, and texts, but usually they do not. In the contract I have the right to cancel the lease because of the situation. They are currently staying in an extended stay hotel, but i do not know which one. Here lie my questions:

Where would I send a certified letter with the cancellation? If I send it to my condo address they won't receive it. I do not know exactly where he works. Can I only send an email?

If I give them 30 days can I put a lockbox on the door to make sure I am there when they move their items out? Or can I change the locks before 30 days?

Thanks in advance! I look forward to using this site.

Doug