Start a new topic

Tenant Breaks Lease Before Move-In

I am in California and about to lease my home.  I have an applicant who cannot move in for 3 weeks.  They have just sold their home, but all of the contingencies will not be lifted for 19 days.  While they are not concerned about their buyer qualifying for a loan and getting a good appraisal on their home, I am concerned, given the current lending environment, that they could decide not to proceed with leasing my home days before the scheduled move-in.   If I have a signed lease and a deposit, if they default on my lease, can I deduct lost rent from the date they were supposed to occupy the home until I get new tenants moved in?

Yes you can.
Loss rent is not tax deductable. What I would do is require them to pay 2 months security deposit upon signing. If they don't pay rent on the due date, give them a 3-day Notice to pay or quit. If they don't pay within 3 days, start the eviction process.
Login to post a comment