Nightmare Tenants - what can we do?

b_girl

Thank you benjus will make sure we get it in writing!

b_girl

Just another question - I think that they will still want us to give a reference for their next landlord. Should we agree and tell them the truth or refuse to give one?

DTDfanBoy

If they agree to surrender the tenancy in writing I'd give them whatever they want, giving them a bad reference may result in them staying on in the property as they can't find somewhere else

RAS

Do not be surprised if they now decide they do not want to move out early, because that would suit you.

You must get it in writing or they can claim illegal eviction.

b_girl

DTDfanBoy wrote: »

If they agree to surrender the tenancy in writing I'd give them whatever they want, giving them a bad reference may result in them staying on in the property as they can't find somewhere else

I agree DTDfanBoy but would feel incredibly sorry for the next landlord. Suppose we've just got to do what's best for us; selfish or otherwise.

Pixie5740

Next time they phone, don't answer. Keep all communications in writing (ink and paper not emails). If your tenants no longer want an early surrender there's not much you can do about it. Just issue a Section 21 and get them out as soon as possible, then market the property. Could you move back into the property whilst it's on the market so that you're not paying out rent and a mortgage?

What were the references that you requested for the tenants like? If you need to provide a reference for them don't get emotional about it, just stick to the facts like, rent was paid in time, property was kept in good condition. Then again their next landlord might be silly enough not to ask for a reference.

b_girl

Pixie5740 wrote: »

Next time they phone, don't answer. Keep all communications in writing (ink and paper not emails). If your tenants no longer want an early surrender there's not much you can do about it. Just issue a Section 21 and get them out as soon as possible, then market the property. Could you move back into the property whilst it's on the market so that you're not paying out rent and a mortgage?

What were the references that you requested for the tenants like? If you need to provide a reference for them don't get emotional about it, just stick to the facts like, rent was paid in time, property was kept in good condition. Then again their next landlord might be silly enough not to ask for a reference.

They were fine. But very matter of fact like the example you gave so perhaps they were trying to get rid of them too.
Moving back isn't really an option as we have moved back to my home town (about 45 mins away) and have a 2 yr old and 4 month old who I don't want to uproot again. I also have PND and have a lot of support from my family who live here. It would also be a struggle for my DH to get to work from there.

I think my Dad would lend us the money to keep paying the mortgage and then we'd pay him back once it was sold.

ognum

b_girl wrote: »

Just another question - I think that they will still want us to give a reference for their next landlord. Should we agree and tell them the truth or refuse to give one?

There are many ways to say or write a reference that tells the truth but maybe misses out some bits.

Just like if someone asks if you like their new dress, you can say you like the style!

So say they pay the rent on time, are good at reporting issues are communicative and have generally taken care of the property. All true!

Jagraf

Can I just summarise what I understand you have said:

You couldn't afford the mortgage so moved into rented, then took on tenants (presumably so mortgage could be paid)

Then your tenants kept wanting things done (some legit, some you think OTT)

Then they weren't satisfied so they wanted to leave but you said no, as they would be breaking their contract

Then after saying they couldnt leave, you want them to cooperate by opening up their home to your prospective purchasers as you now want to sell as being landlords isn't for you.


If this is accurate, then why do you expect them to cooperate if (1) you think they are hassle and (2) you won't let them leave and (3) yo are disturbing their peace so that you can get rent from them and sell the house while they babysit.

Sorry I would be a bit peeved too if I were them.

marliepanda

Completely agree with Jagref. You refused their request, which was your right.

Now they are refusing your requests, which is their right, but they are the 'nightmare' tenants.

You can't as someone am said earlier, have your cake and eat it.

Wait until they are gone and then sell up