Q and A with Prop West

Q) One of my tenants reported a stoppage in the toilet. A plumber was sent immediately and found the cause to be a small toy that was flushed down the toilet. I informed the tenant that they are responsible for paying for this repair since it was tenant caused. The tenant is refusing to pay the plumbing bill. What should I do?

A) Many, if not most, rental agreements state that a tenant is liable for a repair if it was caused by tenant negligence. Serve the tenant with the plumbing invoice and ask for payment. If they do not pay serve the tenants with a "notice to cure or quite." Then if they do not pay the invoice or move out within the three day period you can start eviction.