what to do??!!

[cjindel]

We are landlords of a residential home in PA. We are currently living out of the state. The tenants that have been in the property since June 2009 have asked for 'special treatment' on several issues. The first is that we gave them 90 days to pay us security. We received it at about 110 days...only after we sent them a letter 'reminding' them of the security deposit being due. Their reply, "we forgot about it." Then, they wanted $50 off of the monthly rental agreement for the winter months because they 'have to heat the house.' We replied, 'no way.' Now, we didn't receive December's rent until 12/9. We have a $75 late fee after the 5th, plus a $10/day late fee after that until full payment is received. Their payment only included the regular rent. In their words,'IF we charge them a late fee, they would need to pay in increments.' Given the past with them, we do not feel comfortable with them paying us in payments, as we feel that we will never receive the monies. Do we, as landlords, have any recourse? Can we send a demand letter for payment of the late charges by a specific date or eviction will be pursued? We feel that this is only the beginning of the payment problems with them. Also, they have ripped out shrubs that we had, etc. They also have a car sitting on our property, that is non-operational and not ours and not theirs. We've asked them to remove it, but have been met with resistance..anything that we can do about that situation? We have sent them certified letters specifically outlining what they are not to do. They seem to be tenants who feel that they can do whatever plus expect special deals just because they ask. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

[mightymoose]

You are right, this is only the beginning. The more you bend, the more they will try to take advantage of you.
Give them written notice to pay or move out. THe sooner you get the process started the better off you will be.

As for the car in the yard, if it is in violation of any law or county ordinance, notify your county's code enforcement office for abatement. They will give proper notice and tow it if it remains. THe owner of the car will get the bill.

 

[Gail_in_Georgia]

Attached is a site that lists state laws/statutes regarding landlord/tenant laws.

Highlight Pennsylvania, then the landlord/tenant handbook. It will provide information regarding the steps to eviction if you believe the tenants have breached the lease.

http://www.landlordassociation.org/statelaws.html

It is important to follow the laws/statutes for your particular state.

In addition, there are attorneys who provide eviction services. Often landlords who are a distance away from their rental property find such services very helpful.

Gail

 

[cjindel]

Thank you so much for the information. We don't like the direction this situation seems to be heading...our thought is to 'stop the bleeding' now before it gets to be an all-out hemorrhage of money lost. Thanks again!