tenant broke lease without notice

[perrine]

Tenant signed a 6 month lease on November 1st, 2010. On December 27th I got a call from tenant saying he had lost his job and was moving out of town. I returned from vacation on January 1st. He picked up the last of his things on January 6th. I informed him that he was still obligated to pay January rent. He ignored my request saying he didn't have any money.
Since he didn't pay a large deposit, do I have any recourse in this matter? Or should I just cut my losses and try to rent the place quickly? Going after someone who is penniless seemed futile. Please advise.

 

[army judge]

Yes. That's the way I'd play it, too. You could sue for the rent. But, you can't get blood from a turnip. I'm sure the dude is suffering enough anyway.

 

[Gail_in_Georgia]

Many landlords would simply focus on getting the place rerented as soon as they can as opposed to taking this tenant to court.

It's always a good idea to get a security deposit to help out in situations like this.

Gail

 

[perrine]

Army Judge,
Thanks for your quick reply. Your response reminded me of a great quote sent to me recently by a friend: "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle." It is from Philo of Alexandria in the year 45 A.D., but seems appropriate in today's climate of economic woes. We are suffering the loss of rent, but I imagine his suffering is greater. Thanks for your assistance.

 

[perrine]

Reply posted above!

 

[army judge]

Army Judge,
Thanks for your quick reply. Your response reminded me of a great quote sent to me recently by a friend: "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle." It is from Philo of Alexandria in the year 45 A.D., but seems appropriate in today's climate of economic woes. We are suffering the loss of rent, but I imagine his suffering is greater. Thanks for your assistance.

That is as true today as it was 2,000 years ago!

Thanks for the insight!