questions & answers

Question: A room in our home was rented on a month-to-month basis. The 1st month was a trial period to see if they were a good "fit." The man intimidated a disabled female in the home and verbally assaulted her the following day (at which time they were given 10 days to vacate), they were caught smoking marijuana in the home (given a verbal warning), their dog bit someone (didn't break skin just bruising and swelling), caught smoking a second time - told to leave immediately and made threats of imminent harm. Have not returned to claim possessions as agreed and claim we owe them money. What do I do?

Answer: A landlord who has possession of personal property left behind in a rental unit by a former tenant should prepare an inventory of that property and notify the former tenant of the means by which that property may be collected (as well as the cost of storing and removing it if applicable). This formal written notice should be sent by certified mail (return receipt requested) to the last known address of the tenant as well as any alternate addresses known to the landlord. The general rule in Arizona requires that the personal property of a former tenant who was evicted be kept and safeguarded by the landlord for a period of 21 days after the landlord has retaken possession of the rental unit. Although the specific situation that you describe is different it nevertheless would be wise to provide your former tenant with at least one last opportunity to collect his personal property – and to do so in writing.