Tenant vacates property before december 1 without notice. Lease is till August 2025

[Pamela M.]

Hi all,
This is insane. I have rented my house out for almost 7 years and this is the first time a tenant who rented my house, leaves out of no where. Actually there is more to it though. A month back he asked me to add his brother and his wife to the lease and I asked him that they need to go through criminal and other checks that we went through. My tenant has no evictions or criminal history. The very next day we tried to pick up a squabble about "who do you think my people are" and "why do they need criminal check etc". Anyways I sent him a notice through a lawyer about this issue stating that he is breaking the lease. The next thing I know they run up the water bill and leave town (which is today). He sent me a text saying. "Moved out of the house. Keys in lockbox". 

Has any one faced situation like this? Should I file for eviction although he has moved out or should I sue him. I do have 1 month of his security deposit but I am not sure the condition of the house. What is my my next step legally. I cannot find an answer online. I know i have to talk to an attorney soon but some direction will immensely help me. Thank you!!

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Pamela M.:

1. You have written confirmation that he is out. There's no need to evict, ask him for confirmation, or anything else.

2. Secure the house immediately. Change the locks so he can't return. Ensure utilities are back in your name. Inspect.

3. Turn the rental around and find a replacement tenant quickly. Once the new tenant starts paying rent, you release the old tenant from any obligations. For example, if your old tenant moved out November 25th and you place a new tenant 15 days later, then you can hold the old tenant responsible for 15 days of unpaid rent.

4. Charge the old tenant for cleaning and repairs, unpaid rent, and other expenses. If the deposit does not cover the charges, then you should consider whether you want to pursue collecting the unpaid balance or write it off.

You did the right thing, and the tenant's behavior proves you were right.