If I’ma landlord and have decided to file Chapter 13, what are my continuing obligations regarding my5 family property that will be part of the bankruptcy?
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If I’ma landlord and have decided to file Chapter 13, what are my continuing obligations regarding my5 family property that will be part of the bankruptcy?
I have been told that I should discontinue mortgage payments and stop collecting rents and return the deposits (tenants are at will) and advise the tenants that the building may go into foreclosure. What do I tell the tenants when they ask what to do with their rent payments? What if there is a maintenance issue during this time? What are my obligations?
Asked on August 30, 2011 New Hampshire
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If you are planning on filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection (reorganization), whether you are obligated to return your tenant's deposits and whether you plan on keeping the property you own depends upon how you can restructure your debt and what your bankruptcy attorney advises you to do subject to court approval.
I would continue collecting the rents but turn the rents over to the lender. Assuming there is a maintenance issue with the rental, you will need to make the repairs for your tenants. I suggest retaining some of the rents paid for maintenance issues. You should have your bankruptcy attorney advise you how to deal with the rental you have as to keeping it or letting it go in a foreclosure.
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