Problem with new tenant (Yonkers)

[Mike A.]

Interesting and puzzling problem with a brand new tenant. She had an agent, who's now avoiding my calls, and applied for one of my apartments. Income passed, verified her income with the employer, no issues. Credit was okay for the area, etc. She's now two weeks late and I've already served her the 14 day notice. First she said her pay check was late, and then the next week, I said what happened? She said she still hasn't gotten paid, the are in a new system; but she acknowledged receipt of the 14 day notice (as required ny NYS). I am about to have my lawyer file the paperwork in court the evict her. She said she was going to pay part of the rent, then she stopped taking my calls and now is silent. The kicker is, she's not even completely moved in yet. Any suggestions on a tenant like this? It's bewildering as she checked all the boxes and no issues. I sent her one final text to pay or leave on her own; again, no response.

[Richard F.]

Aloha,

You are on the right track, getting the attorney on it immediately. Do not relent. Do not accept ANY partial payment. If she contacts you, refer her to the Attorney, do not discuss anything regarding the rent. If she has maintenance issues (other than an actual emergency), tell her to submit them in writing per local LL/Tenant laws, then handle as necessary.

Most importantly, tighten up your screening process. This should never have happened so quickly.