Can an occupant of a rental stay after the tenant moves?
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Can an occupant of a rental stay after the tenant moves?
My tenant listed his girlfriend as an occupant in a rental I own. They are splitting up and he is moving out. She has no intention of moving though, and she does not have the means to pay the rent. Can she legally stay? Do I evict her? She has been very hostile and I have no desire to continue business with her.
Asked on December 28, 2017 under Real Estate Law, Missouri
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Since she is listed as an "occupant" and not the "tenant", you have no legal responsility to allow her to remain on the premises. Accordingly, in most states you can file for an "ejectment"; this is like an expedited eviction of a non-tenant. At this point, you really should consult with an attorney who specializes in landlord-tenant matters. And at no point should you attempt any type of "self-help" measures such as changing the lock or removing her belongings.
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