non-paying tenant

[blucivic28]

hey there,

I need help with a tenant that is not paying the rent! He hasn't paid rent for four months! He is not returning my calls! He doesn't answer the door so I can't contact him. Can I use my key to enter my property? Do I have to give him any notice to enter my property? Please any help will be very greatful!

Thanks,
teresa

 

[NYClex]

it depends on your state's laws, but most probably the answers are NO and YES. No you cannot simply enter, and yes, you would have to give him notice if you would be allowed to enter at all. It can also depend on the lease contract.

Here is a very good brochure by the state of California. Read it to get an idea of what you are allowed to do and not and how to get the guy to pay the rent or leave. This is only valid in California, but most states have similar laws.

http://www.dca.ca.gov/legal/landlordbook/catenant_download.pdf