A landlord wants to know what to do if tenants lie about having pets in her rental property is the question this week for Ask Landlord Hank. Remember Hank is not an attorney and he is not offering legal advice. If you have a question for him please fill out the form below.
Dear Hank:
What can I do when tenants lie about having pets?
-Rachelle
 Dear Landlady Rachelle,
This issue goes back to your lease.
Many leases have a clause that deals with pets along these lines: Tenants shall not keep any animal or pet in or around the rental property without LANDLORD’S prior written approval and a pet addendum attached and made part of this lease.
As you know, pets can be destructive to your property and I’m sure that is why you don’t allow a pet. I would get photographic proof that the tenant has a pet and then put a 7-day notice on the door. That is a legal notice that lets the tenant know they are in serious violation of the lease and has 7 days to “cure” or fix the violation by getting rid of her pet or pets – or you will file an eviction.
Don’t be soft here, or accommodating, as this could be the tip of the iceberg as far as violations of the lease is concerned. Best of luck!
Sincerely,
Hank Rossi
Each week I answer questions from landlords and property managers across the country in my “Dear Landlord Hank” blog in the digital magazine Rental Housing Journal.   https://rentalhousingjournal.com/asklandlordhank/
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