What are my options for terminating a verbal lease agreement?
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What are my options for terminating a verbal lease agreement?
I have rented a room in my home to a woman and her minor child for a little over a year and no longer want them sharing my home for a number of reasons (the tenant is disrespectful and her daughter is disruptive and destructive to my property). There was never a signed lease agreement and she pays rent on a monthly basis. I intend to give her 30 days written notice to vacate the property but I am wondering if there is anything else that I should do/be aware of. Also what are my options in the case of a real or perceived threat towards myself, my own daughter, or my property?
Asked on December 12, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Florida
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If you want to end the lease with your tenants, the best way to do so is advise the tenants that the tenancy is coming to an end and serve them with a 30 day notice. If 30 days pass and there is no leaving of the unit, your option would then to serve an unlawful detainer action of the tenants. If it comes to the point of filing a lawsuit, you should consult with an attorney who practices landlord tenant law.
Your options as to perceived threats would be to file a restraining order but that will be difficult to implement since the tenants are renting a room in your home. Perceived threats should result in a call to law enforcement.
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