Landlord-Tenant Lawyer


When it comes to anything regarding money and property, dissension and contention are almost always imminent. And when it comes to landlords and their tenants, disputes of some kind very frequently arise and often lead to civil litigation.

If you are leasing your property to tenants, chances are you are already have experienced your fair share of contentions and disputes with your tenants. As a landlord, you have responsibilities to your rental unit, keeping up with its physical structure and infrastructure. Moreover, you must ensure that the building is safe for tenants and in good condition, paying property taxes and utilities. The last thing you need is your tenant causing you trouble.

Unfortunately, disputes over rental agreement and eviction are very much prevalent in landlord-tenant cases. Tenants can refuse or be unable to pay rent, damage property, and even violate community codes and guidelines. They may even contest your eviction notice and linger in your property, disturbing other law-abiding tenants.

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With John Okonji of The Okonji Law Office, however, you can finally resolve your tenant headache. Mr. Okonji offers passionate legal representation and aid to his clients on real estate matters. He knows the ins and outs of rental and real estate law and thus can help represent your interests both inside and outside of court. No matter what kind of tenant issue you may have, rest assured that Mr. Okonji has the experience and expertise to resolve it as an excellent landlord-tenant attorney.

Common Tenant Issues

Some of the most common problems regarding tenants inevitably stem from inability or even refusal to pay rent or other additional expenses. Tenants have a responsibility to pay rent and when they do not, that can lead you stuck between a rock and a hard place when it comes to paying your utilities and the building’s upkeep.

Another common tenant issue includes violating community codes and guidelines. Many rental units have rules regarding pets, the number or kind of guests allowed in the rental unit, and appropriate noise levels. These rules make sure to keep the peace in the building and secure your tenants’ safety. When tenants break those rules, it can lead to damaged property and a disruptive, unsafe environment for the other tenants.
Moreover, your tenant has the responsibility to keep the rental unit in good condition, keeping property intact. If they are remiss in this, then the one who will have to pay for the damaged property will be you, the landlord.

Finally, your tenant may be involved in illegal or criminal activity in the premises. If so, then that is a legitimate reason to terminate the lease and send your renter packing.


Legal Solutions To Consider

One legal solution is mediation. Mediation involves a third-party mediator to facilitate communication, available through private companies and the local bar association. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not have the authority to bind either party into an agreement. Mediation can be a great option if you believe the issue at hand stems from a lack of communication and your tenant is a decent person at heart. Mediation can also help you avoid a long and costly legal battle that would occur otherwise, and it is much more affordable than court in general.

That said, sometimes communication is not the issue here and a more permanent legal solution is needed. When communication fails, heading to small claims court is recommended. Small claims court only hears cases involving money. Regarding landlord-tenant disputes, these cases include issues involving rent increases, unpaid rent, and security deposits not returned.

The advantage of small claims court is that most court fees are low and can even be waived depending on the situation and the parties in question. They are usually quick and efficient in resolving your legal issues. Small claims court, however, is authorized to hear cases only if they involve amounts between $3,000 and $10,000 only; if the damages the tenant incurred exceeds those amounts, you will need to file your lawsuit with the appropriate civil court.

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For another, you should know your legal rights and responsibilities according to federal, state, and local laws. Landlords, for instance, can terminate a lease without reason at the expiration of the lease term, so even if your argument is lacking, know that the law is on your side in that respect.

Lastly, you should have a paper trail of notes and correspondence, making hard copies. A paper trail will easily provide evidence for your tenant’s bad conduct, so be sure to document everything concerning your tenant.

More Tips To Avoid Litigation

There are other ways to avoid suing your tenant other than mediation if you are especially keen on avoiding a costly court battle. For one thing, you should make sure you study the terms of your lease agreement carefully to make sure your tenant has indeed violated these terms. If some part of your agreement has been merely verbal, that will not be binding in court and your argument will be deemed weak.  

For another, you should know your legal rights and responsibilities according to federal, state, and local laws. Landlords, for instance, can terminate a lease without reason at the expiration of the lease term, so even if your argument is lacking, know that the law is on your side in that respect.

Contact Mr. John Okonji Today

Whether you decide to go for small claims court or mediation, Mr. Okonji can help. He can provide you legal aid and guidance during mediation, and if you decide that going to small claims court is the right decision for you, then he can provide you with expert legal representation.

He can get you the money your tenant owes you for rent, additional expenses, and/or property damage. Mr. Okonji can also provide crucial education on your rights as a landlord so that you will not get blindsided by the other side’s arguments. His legal aid is invaluable, so be sure to call today and schedule an appointment at his Katy office today! You can be sure that as a talented landlord-tenant attorney, Mr. Okonji can provide you with the legal expertise to get back what you are owned from your recalcitrant tenant.

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