Question:
I'm an out of state landlord owning property in california. I
permitted a tenant to move in on a periodic rental agreement with only
$400 deposit on $650 rent. The tenant moved out giving only a week
notice when 30 days is required, having not cleaned the premises and
leaving minor damage. The whole amount owed to me after the $400 in
deposit I hold is just under $500. Can I send this to a collection
agency, or must I sue in small claims court first?
Answer:
-You can send it to a collection agency without suing in small claims court
first.
-You need to make a demand for the money first from the tenant and give him
time (30 days?) to pay or dispute the amount before sending it to
collection.
-Oh, you can sue in small claims, but good luck collecting afterwards.
