tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Feb 17, 2023 11:02 AM
tenant complaint (by Richard [MI]) Feb 17, 2023 11:07 AM
tenant complaint (by Oregon Woodsmoke [ID]) Feb 17, 2023 11:21 AM
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Feb 17, 2023 11:31 AM
tenant complaint (by Jim in O C [CA]) Feb 17, 2023 11:33 AM
tenant complaint (by plenty [MO]) Feb 17, 2023 11:39 AM
tenant complaint (by Ken [NY]) Feb 17, 2023 12:54 PM
tenant complaint (by Scott [IN]) Feb 17, 2023 1:02 PM
tenant complaint (by Hoosier [IN]) Feb 17, 2023 1:55 PM
tenant complaint (by plenty [MO]) Feb 17, 2023 2:06 PM
tenant complaint (by Allym [NJ]) Feb 17, 2023 2:26 PM
tenant complaint (by Vee [OH]) Feb 17, 2023 2:50 PM
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Feb 17, 2023 3:32 PM
tenant complaint (by MC [PA]) Feb 17, 2023 4:12 PM
tenant complaint (by Mike45 [NV]) Feb 17, 2023 4:37 PM
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Feb 17, 2023 5:17 PM
tenant complaint (by RB [TN]) Feb 17, 2023 7:10 PM
tenant complaint (by BRAD 20,000 [IN]) Feb 17, 2023 7:37 PM
tenant complaint (by Small potatoes [NY]) Feb 17, 2023 8:22 PM
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Feb 17, 2023 8:29 PM
tenant complaint (by 6x6 [TN]) Feb 17, 2023 8:36 PM
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Feb 17, 2023 9:00 PM
tenant complaint (by myob [GA]) Feb 18, 2023 8:50 AM
tenant complaint (by myob [GA]) Feb 18, 2023 8:50 AM
tenant complaint (by Gail K [GA]) Feb 18, 2023 9:19 AM
tenant complaint (by MC [PA]) Feb 18, 2023 9:26 AM
tenant complaint (by zero [IN]) Feb 18, 2023 10:22 AM
tenant complaint (by Oregon Woodsmoke [ID]) Feb 18, 2023 11:06 AM
tenant complaint (by Ray-N-Pa [PA]) Feb 19, 2023 6:54 PM
tenant complaint (by MC [PA]) Feb 20, 2023 12:44 PM
tenant complaint (by Salernitana [CA]) Feb 20, 2023 2:21 PM
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Feb 21, 2023 10:20 AM
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 11:02 AM Message:
I live in an owner-occupied duplex and rent out the other side. Without permission - My tenant installed a "Cat Structure" outside the window of their unit that obstructs the window. With proper notification, I informed them that they installed the structure without permission and it was too close to the house and that it must be moved so I could install trim around the windows. They argued that it can't be moved - and would not move it until they moved out. I moved the structure, and installed the trim. I put the structure back in the same place and condition when I should not have -- my mistake. The tenant claims I destroyed their property when I moved the structure. I know I made a mistake putting the structure back. The tenant is upset and is now making a stink about the lease agreement, which has a cosigner, and wants the cosigner removed. Otherwise this tenant has been on time 4 years with the rent and has been cooperative and no other real trouble. I know. Give them an inch and they find a way to start digging for more. Suggestions? --165.1.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Richard [MI]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 11:07 AM Message:
1. The landlord is in charge. The tenant is not. -Aldo
2. Happy clause.
3. Ignore them. Stick to the terms of the lease. --97.85.x.xx |
tenant complaint (by Oregon Woodsmoke [ID]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 11:21 AM Message:
Is the cat there with landlord permission? --76.178.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 11:31 AM Message:
YES - the cat is there with permission. --165.1.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Jim in O C [CA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 11:33 AM Message:
The key words are WITHOUT PERMISSION. The longer tenants live in a residence the more they think they can do what they want. Refer them back to the terms of their lease agreement.
No tenant is better than a bad tenant. --99.23.xxx.x |
tenant complaint (by plenty [MO]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 11:39 AM Message:
So the issue now is the cat window is "damaged" do they have before and after pictures? Looks like these windows cost between $00 and $600. They have a used one, I can't image it was damaged, have you went to their home and had them show you the damage or what they are talking about. Sometimes just working thru it is best. Otherwise just do not renew their lease, you are in CA so that may or may not be an option. But for sure this is a sore spot for both of you. The cat windows I say on line looked pretty nice, perhaps there is a compromise that can be reached. --172.56.xx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Ken [NY]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 12:54 PM Message:
I see no reason to compromise,if it wasnt supposed to be there i dont see how you should be responsible if they claim it was damaged.At this point i would tell them if they dont like it they can move out or shut up about it,time for a rent increase --74.77.xx.xx |
tenant complaint (by Scott [IN]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 1:02 PM Message:
By re-installing the unit, you might have granted them a waiver that supersedes the lease. In other words, you have given permission. If it has to go, reissue the 30 day written notice to cure.
--107.141.xx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Hoosier [IN]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 1:55 PM Message:
I agree with Scott. Reissue the notice, and if they don’t comply start eviction. If they can prove you damaged something they may have a counter suit, but you admitted you made a mistake so own up to that in court if necessary. --99.92.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by plenty [MO]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 2:06 PM Message:
The tenant claims I destroyed their property when I moved the structure. I know I made a mistake putting the structure back.
So. What do they want?
The tenant is upset and is now making a stink about the lease agreement, which has a cosigner, and wants the cosigner removed
Not an option. They can live there with co-sign or not.
--172.56.xx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Allym [NJ]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 2:26 PM Message:
So leave the cosigner, as they are going to stop paying if you remove it. Do nothing more. You put the structure back. It is there without permission. If they stop paying use the cosigner or evict. It's owner occupied so in some states you could even put all their crap on the sidewalk. Ignore their notes and etc. unless they stop paying. They know they are wrong but feel entitled. Find out what rights you have as owner occupant in your state and give them a list. I bet it's a lot. Future note: When someone is paying, cut their stupid pet tricks some slack and keep taking the money. --71.188.xx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Vee [OH]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 2:50 PM Message:
Do not change any part of the lease until the tennt has moved away. --76.190.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 3:32 PM Message:
Thanks everyone.
The feedback is enlightening. I have had really good luck with my tenants over my 20 year tenure. Not that I was the best landlord and was flawless in my judgment. But one landlord friend of mine says "Hey if you haven't been brought to court or ever have to actually evict anyone, you are doing pretty darn good." I have a rent increase that was scheduled before this noise occurred -- Maybe the tenant is just being mad -- ?
I will consult Attorney if the increase is not honored.
--165.1.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by MC [PA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 4:12 PM Message:
LL is in charge-T is not. When they started that it wouldn't be moved until they did-that would have been my notice. Ts who have been in one place long tend to think it is theirs and they can do what they want-I agree with Jim. The without permission is what pushes it AND you live next door..I would be done-increase or not. YOU put it back up so it sends a mixed signal. I don't care about the damage or not-what about your building damage? --73.230.xxx.xx |
tenant complaint (by Mike45 [NV]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 4:37 PM Message:
I am not visualizing this cat structure. It is outside, not inside, and too close to the building. From this, I am wondering why everyone here seems to see a lease violation. If it is a free-standing ladder/shelf type of structure, then the tenant may well be entitled to "install" it in the yard. --76.4.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 5:17 PM Message:
The structure is wire mesh resembling a "dog run" type enclosure with a tarped lid, that measures 4 feet wide, 20 feet long and 5 feet high and obscures part of 2 bedroom windows. And is up against the building. The cat goes in/out one of the windows into the structure.
Creative.But never consulted with me on where to put it.
--165.1.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by RB [TN]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 7:10 PM Message:
It works till it dont. -RB
Next ! --24.183.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by BRAD 20,000 [IN]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 7:37 PM Message:
Tim,
THIS is why I don't want to live next to my renters.
There comes a time when even the best res is not longer a good res.
If it's not in your lease it's not a lease violation.
This thing sounds like a big project to build. Did you not notice it going up?
Front, side, or back of house? Is it truly a problem or is it you feeling slighted?
It sounds more like a PEOPLE toy than something a cat would use.
I don't need an atty for this but you live in Crazy Cali so an atty is appropriate. Write a letter giving a firm date (on a weekend 14 days away) to remove or it will be removed by your crew at his expense. But don't tear it down until the atty says so.
And as always, the Happy Clause works!
Stay cool and work this out.
BRAD
--73.103.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Small potatoes [NY]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 8:22 PM Message:
I don't hear you saying it got damaged, just the tenant claiming it was. Point is you asked them to move it so you could complete a task, they said fu and now expect to be compensated. You should say he damaged your landscaping. In a multifamily building I don't see where outdoor space is their exclusive use, so they had no right to install it. I have tenants that share yards but they put their grill and things away to the side when they are done. Best thing to do is ignore their request. --172.58.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 8:29 PM Message:
THIS is why I don't want to live next to my renters.
For many reasons living next my renters is how I was actually able to afford the place as owner-occupied. As I have experienced, like most LLs, I have good days and not-so good days. It is the tenants that most of the time don't want to live next to their LL.
There comes a time when even the best res is not longer a good res.
Agreed. Q. TNG "all good things must come to an end."
If it's not in your lease it's not a lease violation.
It is in the lease.
This thing sounds like a big project to build. Did you not notice it going up?
I was out of town for 2 weeks -
Front, side, or back of house?
Structure is behind a fence in part of yard I don't go to or maybe 2 times a year at most.
Is it truly a problem or is it you feeling slighted?
Just the attitude. If they would have asked, I am pretty reasonable and worked out something if they bothered to make a proposal. I had scheduled a handyman to come out to finish the trim around the windows from earlier in the year. The way it went down -- so childish. The trim and siding were primed and caulked and clearly not finished and the tenant made it out like they thought the job was finished (Bull SNOT!). To say that I "destroyed" the structure is a fabrication by itself.
It sounds more like a PEOPLE toy than something a cat would use.
eh. They don't have small children and it is the size of a dog run.
I don't need an atty for this but you live in Crazy Cali so an atty is appropriate. Write a letter giving a firm date (on a weekend 14 days away) to remove or it will be removed by your crew at his expense. But don't tear it down until the atty says so.
And as always, the Happy Clause works!
Thanks BRAD --165.1.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by 6x6 [TN]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 8:36 PM Message:
Does blocking the window violate fire codes? --73.120.xx.xx |
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Posted on: Feb 17, 2023 9:00 PM Message:
by 6x6 [TN]
GOOD QUESTION. I checked the Code. The Code requires "unobstructed" egress from inside the unit to an exterior door. Exterior doors from apartments exit to open walkway with exterior stairwell (more than 1 story) or through a sprinklered, enclosed corridor and stairwell (modern). Windows in bedrooms are required for Light and ventilation. The part that obstructs the window visually obscures the light and the "view." Which is nothing to look at - really. They see a fence and dirt.
People only jump out of windows from apartment bedrooms when very desperate. --165.1.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by myob [GA]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2023 8:50 AM Message:
This is the "OL" --- one ah sh** has wiped out 1000 at-a- boys.
You should have broke the shovel after moving the cat structure. --108.239.xx.xx |
tenant complaint (by myob [GA]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2023 8:50 AM Message:
This is the "OL" --- one ah sh** has wiped out 1000 at-a- boys.
You should have broke the shovel after moving the cat structure. --108.239.xx.xx |
tenant complaint (by Gail K [GA]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2023 9:19 AM Message:
Your tenant has built what is sometimes called a "catio" with access to this from a window. Often these are no more than one (or likely two) "kennel master" kennels put together with a tarp for a cover; easily put up and taken down. Since I do animal rescue I have one in my house (although Bill and I built ours from scratch). A 20 foot long catio is a looong one for just one cat. My argument would be the tenant never requested permission to put up a 20 foot long structure that impedes two windows and that they are free to remove it when they decide to find another place to rent. The demand to remove the co-signer from the lease plays no role in this issue.
--73.108.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by MC [PA]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2023 9:26 AM Message:
Agree with Gail-what does the co signer have to do with it?
Can they qualify on thier own? Another credit pull, at their expense, might be necessary IF you want to keep them. It is not their call on either issue. --73.230.xxx.xx |
tenant complaint (by zero [IN]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2023 10:22 AM Message:
Tim,
I am not following your code speak. Realize that I am not in CA so I am using code speak for IN.
You are in a duplex. You have a structure that is blocking the window of a bedroom.
Around here you must have two forms of egress from a bedroom. Door and window leading outside is most common. Two doors if leading to different parts of building where one leads outside works as well.
Does this structure block egress from a bedroom? Can someone who is engaged in a structure fire get out of the bedroom window?
My area is pretty lax and grandfather's in a lot of the rules. But then again I am not in CA where I hear they have rules for having rules.
If this is the case then you can tell the tenant they have to remove it for safety concerns. If they do not, you can remove it as you want everyone safe.
After this all blows over if the tenant still has an attitude then I agree with the others and would offer a happy clause or start the long, drawn out eviction process. --107.147.xx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Oregon Woodsmoke [ID]) Posted on: Feb 18, 2023 11:06 AM Message:
When is their lease up? I would give them notice that their cosigner stays on the lease until they move which will be at the end of the lease.
I might also send a notice to the cosigner saying that the tenants has told you that they want to terminate their cosigning agreement, but that can't happen until the tenant moves out. If the cosigner really wants out of the arrangement, they will put pressure on the tenant to move.
Depending upon how you feel about the tenant, you can either get them out at the end of the lease or let them know you will let them out of the lease early of they find a new place to live before the lease is up. That would be your choice on how to give that notice.
In future, when tenants violate the lease deal with it immediately. Don't ignore it just because that is the easiest thing to do. The tenants should have been given a notice that their cat window was installed without written permission and that it violates safety code by blocking windows and that they must remove it. --76.178.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Ray-N-Pa [PA]) Posted on: Feb 19, 2023 6:54 PM Message:
If my residents tells me that i can't change an unauthorized modification until they leave- what I heard was that they are leaving.
Please let them know that you consider this the 30 day notice .
--24.101.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by MC [PA]) Posted on: Feb 20, 2023 12:44 PM Message:
Update? Did you let it go, give notice,come to an understanding,etc..? --73.230.xxx.xx |
tenant complaint (by Salernitana [CA]) Posted on: Feb 20, 2023 2:21 PM Message:
As 6x6 mentioned, some insurance companies in CA will refuse to renew a policy if an exterior window is obstructed to the outside. We just went through a similar ordeal last week.
If you are in Northern California and not in Alameda County, an awesome and reasonably priced attorney is Todd Rothbard in San Jose.
Take care and please updated us if you can.
--67.170.xxx.xxx |
tenant complaint (by Tim [CA]) Posted on: Feb 21, 2023 10:20 AM Message:
Thank you everyone for the information.
(by 6x6 [TN])
(by zero [IN])
(by Oregon Woodsmoke [ID])
(by Salernitana [CA]
The Code (Title 24, CBC) is interestingly quiet about emergency egress out a bedroom window. I have noticed that multi-story apartment buildings would be hard pressed to allow the required secondary egress to be from a 3-5-6+ story apartment building with uniformly common floor plans throughout, 1st story up. Again, the only code requirements for bedroom windows address light and ventilation in a dwelling unit. I have yet to check with my home-owner insurance carrier. Good suggestion. That is what I will check with them next.
Salernitana. Thank you for the referral for an awesome and reasonably priced attorney. I will be meeting with an attorney on Wednesday 2/22 for and initial "free" consultation, and see where it goes from there.
(by Gail K [GA])
The demand to remove the co-signer from the lease plays no role in this issue.
Thank you -- I believe that the demand is not directly relevant to the root issue -- yet it still serves as an illustration of the Tenant's attitude.
I have been a tenant and a landlord. I always try to put myself in the tenant's shoes. My property is not the best in the neighborhood and realistically, each of my tenants have put up with some of my imperfect practices - but never has there been a "deal breaker" on either of the side of the relationship. Until now, this tenant has been reasonable when I have made requests and patient with my on-going improvements and repairs. I have always been made whole with the rents and made sure that the property is safe and comfortable. I put up a tenant in a hotel room for 2 nights when the central AC unit went out and had it replaced. We have a local Rental Housing Inspection Program (yearly fee) that ensures that tenants are well treated with regards to the basic safety requirements. My The recent tenant unit inspection in 2022 (before the "cat Structure") and had zero violations. I checked the local municipal Code to see if the cat structure violates any of the city ordinances and it does not. I will see what my options are when I consult with the ATTY and UPDATE.
--165.1.xxx.xxx |
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