Discovering and Keeping Great Tenants: The Non-Renewal Process Explained
Discovering and keeping good tenants is a crucial factor in keeping your rental vacancies low. Yet, at times, things don’t work out between you and your tenant. Maybe your circumstances are changing, or you must do major repairs. In such instances, a non-renewal notice is among the most successful methods to end your current lease on good terms. This guide will walk you through the non-renewal process and the necessary information you’ll need to handle it properly, especially for landlords in the St. Louis area.
Is Non-Renewal The Same As Eviction?
It’s critical to understand that non-renewal and eviction are two different processes. Eviction is the legal process a landlord uses to remove a tenant who has violated the terms of their lease. This involves legal steps, such as court hearings, and may require law enforcement to remove the tenant.
Non-renewal, however, is not about forcing a tenant to leave due to a lease violation. This process simply means that the landlord chooses not to extend the lease after the current term concludes. A landlord cannot just wait until the lease ends and then suddenly ask the tenant to move out. Just like eviction, non-renewal must follow specific state and local laws. For St. Louis landlords, it’s essential to research and understand the Missouri state laws and local regulations to ensure that your non-renewal is handled legally and professionally.
When and Why to Choose Non-Renewal
The non-renewal process typically begins with a written notice sent to your tenant informing them that their lease will not be extended. This notice must be sent in advance of the lease’s end, and the required timeframe varies by location. For example, in some areas, the notice must be sent 90 days before the lease’s end, while in others, it may only be 30 days.
While it’s not always necessary to give a reason for the non-renewal, the notice should typically be delivered in writing, often via certified mail or another signature-based service. Abiding by these regulations is key to avoiding legal complications.
Legal Considerations for Landlords in St. Louis
It’s crucial not to use non-renewal for situations that should be handled with an eviction, or as a way to raise the rent or alter lease terms illegally. Using non-renewal notices to harass or pressure a tenant into leaving is illegal in most areas. This could lead to an expensive lawsuit, especially if a tenant believes their lease is being terminated in violation of local fair housing laws.
You can avoid these legal headaches by recognizing and following the local statutes to the letter. Partnering with a knowledgeable St. Louis property management team can help you navigate these complex legal requirements with confidence.
Communicating Non-Renewal Clearly and Professionally
If you have established good communication with your resident (which is crucial for any landlord!), you must continue to do so throughout the non-renewal process. Even if your tenant is upset or frustrated by your decision, you should maintain professionalism. By expressing empathy, you may be able to avoid retaliatory damage or other negative conduct and, with any luck, part with your tenant on good terms.
One of the helpful approaches to manage a non-renewal situation is to hire an expert. At Real Property Management Endeavor, our property managers in Saint Louis can assist you with repairs, lease adjustments, and ownership status. For extra details, don’t hesitate to contact us online or call 636-244-5959 today.
Originally Published on October 29, 2021
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