What canI do if tenants moved out owing a month’s rent, nearly a $1,000 in utility bills and stole around $2000 of my stuff?
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What canI do if tenants moved out owing a month’s rent, nearly a $1,000 in utility bills and stole around $2000 of my stuff?
Can they be prosecuted for the theft of my stuff? What recourse do I have to recover my losses?
Asked on December 15, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Florida
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If some of your property was stolen by your former tenants, then I would make a police report about what transpired. In the interim, I would write them seeking the return of the items taken as well as the need to pay the owed rent and utility bills. Keep a copy of the letter for future reference.
Most likely the former tenants will not respond by paying you what is owed. If they do not, then your option is small claims court. I would make a claim to your insurance carrier for what was taken.
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