questions & answers

Question: my tenant moved out Feb 1st w 4 months left on lease. I simply received a text stating she moved, the keys were in the kitchen, no explanation, nor any request for repair, she would not return my phone calls. does a text qualify as written notice to vacate. lease required 60 days notice. the tenant at neighboring property I rent was arrested, an inaccurate article appeared in the paper now the lease breaker wants her entire deposit refunded. I re-leased her property, sent her a deposit refund less prorated rent to re-lease date, late fee, minimum cleaning charge, per lease. she reported nothin

Answer: Assuming the text message clearly stated the tenant’s intention to terminate the rental agreement and vacate the premises – and coupled with her failure to respond to your inquiries after the message was sent – a court likely would find that it did constitute written notice. Nevertheless, It is always wise for a landlord to keep copies of all correspondence (including text) and agreements (including the original lease) and payments between you and your former tenant just in case a tenant decides to pursue the matter further (whether justifiably or otherwise).