If a tenant moves out without paying past rent, what can legally be done to get it?
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If a tenant moves out without paying past rent, what can legally be done to get it?
Asked on January 9, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Massachusetts
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If the former tenant vacates without having paying the full amount of rent due, the landlord has the option of bringing an action against the former tenant for the unpaid rent. Depending upon the amount owed, small claims court might be the jurisdiction for such an action.
Depending upon what the written lease states (assuming there is one), the agreement may allow the security deposit placed by the tenant to be used as an offset for any unpaid rent.
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