How do I legally get someone out of an extra room I’m renting if they don’t pay rent?
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How do I legally get someone out of an extra room I’m renting if they don’t pay rent?
I have a extra room for rent in the townhouse I lease. I verbally agreed to help out a person by letting them rent the room weekly. There is no document that states any renting guidelines or any contract based agreement. I’m simply renting the room weekly. The guy I am renting the room to did not pay rent for the week and I want to discontinue renting to him because of lack of payment and disrespect to my property what is the legal way of getting him out and proceeding with someone else? I’d there is no contract or legal document with a rent duration can I ask him to leave and if he doesn’t have him escorted out? I need to fill the room with someone that will pay.
Asked on January 5, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Florida
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Since you are the primary tenant, this means that this person is your "subtenant" and you are his "sublandlord". Accordingly, since you have the legal right to occupy the premises, you can file an eviction lawsuit known as an "unllawful detainer". You will first however, have to comply with all legal requirements in order to get this person. This starts with giving him written notice. If he fails to vacate by the date specified in the notice, you will then file the unlawful detainer. Once it is granted by a court, he will either have to leave the premises voluntarily or you can have the sheriff remove him.
In the meantime do not undertake any "self-help" remedies (e.g. changing the locks, removing his belongings, etc). You could be sued if you do. At this point you should consult a tenant's right group or attorney who specializes landlord-tenant cases.
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