All Forum Posts by: Dave Derocher

I just received an application from a couple and they noted that they have been convicted of a felony.  As they were filling out the application in front of me they both told me about their own felony in the past.  The male had 9 felonies all more than 12 years back, and she has a possession felony that she is on probation for (about 1 1/2 years ago).  They both shared freely this info I didn't ask for any explanation, I assumed it would show on the background check.  When doing the background check through Smartmove,  nothing came up for either of them.  I'm pretty sure i want to decline them as i believe the market is strong in the area.   

My questions is can I decline them based on what they told me even those it's not in their background check and how do i word it in the decline letter.  After reading many forums on BP i haven't gotten a really clear answer as to if this is discrimination or not.  Even going through the State of Michigan landlord material i haven't really gotten a clear answer.    This is the first denial i have done, and don't want to open my self to legal issues.  

Dave 

Freeland, Michigan 

Thanks for the great advice.  Update: I have contacted the current tenant and they are going to move out.  So 30 day notice.  Now just need to screen the other and see if they meet the requirements.

Thanks Matt and Nathan for the advice.   

 When i bought a 3 unit home in 2017 it had 3 tenants in place. (all 3 are still there, )   The tenant in the 1 bed, apartment asked is she could have 2 friends stay with her so I agreed and charged additional rent ($35 per person and $50 for two dogs).  I did not add their names to the lease (probably a mistake) The problem is the original tenant who's name is on the lease has not been there for about a week and the other two said she went to live with a guy out of state.  (not sure if i believe them) The tenant has not returned my text or phone calls and the two other have agreed to pay the full rent.  First question: How would I end the old lease (If i go that route). It's month to month and its paid by a outside company that handles her social security moneys, so it's always on time. So, i'm not sure if she's in breach of any language in the lease which warrants eviction.  I can give her 30 day notice of termination if needed per the lease language.    

Second Problem: The other two have asked if they can stay and pay the full rent. I would still screen them using BP recommendation and require them to sign a new lease but what do I do with all the old tenants positions.  

A possible third problem: How should i handle it if I don't want the additional two individuals living there anymore.  They're not on the lease, I have no security deposit from them, and no other information on them. (As i type this I realize i really should have gotten their personal information to hold when they moved in).  But still a problem to plan for.  

Any guidance would be appreciated in this matter. Thank you in advance

Dave from Freeland, Michigan