Introduction
Are you worried about tenants running away? Don’t worry; this article has all the answers. Landlords can take advantage of legal procedures to handle situations where tenants run away or do not pay rent. Compiles information to guide landlords in overcoming challenges in the tenancy journey and maintaining a healthy landlord-tenant relationship.
Renting out your property is a profitable business idea that provides monetary benefits and financial growth. But becoming a landlord is more challenging than it seems. You may be facing various challenges if the tenants do not pay the rent or abscond.
It can be stressful and confusing at times, but you can handle such situations with the right information. The article below explains what to do if your tenants run away, your rights as a landlord, and the steps to take.
Absconding Tenant
A runaway tenant can be referred to as a tenant who leaves the rented property without notifying the landlord. A person who vacates a rented property without notifying the landlord. Such tenants often leave unpaid rent and other financial obligations under the tenancy agreement. In addition to this, they may damage property or leave their personal belongings behind before fleeing the premises.
Dealing with a runaway tenant can be a challenge for landlords. Especially if the tenant has left a significant amount of unpaid rent or caused damage to the property. Landlords may have to take legal action to recover unpaid rent or damages. In some cases, landlords may also hire a debt collection agency to recover unpaid rent or damages.
To avoid such situations, landlords should conduct thorough background checks on potential tenants. Preventive measures can be taken such as verifying their income and employment status and getting references from previous landlords. Additionally, landlords can include clauses in the tenancy agreement. It may specify the consequences of leaving the property without notice or failing to fulfill financial obligations under the contract.
Rights of a Landlord in India
As a landlord in India, you have certain rights when dealing with absconding tenants. Let us know some of them.
- Legal action: As a landlord, you can take legal action against absconding tenants for breach of contract. A complaint can be lodged at the local police station. One can also approach a civil court to initiate legal proceedings.
- Recovery of arrears: The tenant has the right to seize or sell the left-behind properties. You also have the right to recover any unpaid rent or property damage.
- Possession of property: If the tenant vacates the property, you have the right to repossess it. However, it is suggested to follow the Rent Control Act, or Rent Act 2021, applicable in your state.
- Security deposit retention: If you collect a security deposit from a tenant, you can use it to pay rent or cover damages to the property. Landlords must follow the terms specified in the tenancy agreement to deduct the security deposit.
Things to Do When a Tenant Runs Away
Dealing with a runaway tenant can be challenging. But now let us see some of the steps you should take to resolve the situation effectively.
- Document everything: Keep records of all communications with the tenant, including emails, letters, and text messages. You can also click pictures or videos of the property for compensation. They can be used as evidence for the future.
- Secure property: Take steps to secure property to prevent further damage or unauthorized access. Change the locks if necessary. Close doors and windows to secure against intrusions.
- Issue a legal notice: If the tenant does not respond, consult a legal advisor to recover dues through a legal process. Send a legal notice to the tenant. Notify them of the breach of contract.
- Contact the authorities: If the tenant is not responding to the notice, consider filing a complaint with the local police station immediately. Provide them with relevant documents and evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
As a landlord, you must adhere to legal procedures when dealing with a runaway tenant. Such a tenant may cause damage to the property before leaving. So it is better to document every piece of evidence. You can seize or sell the tenant’s belongings to recover your loss. In such a situation, try to talk to the tenant positively without getting into a fight. For more news like this, visit our Openplot.com.
Also read: Bengaluru Rental House: Do You Know Why Rental House Prices Increased?