How To Deal With Verbally Abusive Tenants?

Being a landlord can be challenging and sometimes dangerous. One issue many property owners face is dealing with verbally abusive tenants. Angry or hostile renters may use intimidation tactics like yelling, insults, or threats to try and get their way. As a landlord, it is important to protect yourself while also following the law.

In this article, we will provide you with some helpful tips for effectively managing verbally abusive tenants.

What should you do if a tenant is verbally abusive?

If a tenant begins issuing threatening or abusive messages, it is crucial to respond professionally and establish clear boundaries.

Do not engage or threaten back. Remain calm and do not let the tenant's behavior cause you to lose your composure.
Tell the tenant all communication must now be in writing. Do not discuss issues over the phone where things could escalate.
Save all written communications like emails, texts, or letters. Document the dates, times, and content of any abusive messages in case documentation is needed for legal proceedings.
Contact the police if you feel physically threatened or in danger. Having an official report on file helps establish a pattern of behavior if further action is needed.
Ask a witness to be present for any required in-person interactions. Having another person there can help de-escalate tense situations and serve as a witness if needed.

What should you do if a tenant threatens you?

Handling threats from tenants requires a serious response.

Call the police immediately if you feel physically threatened. Your safety should be the top priority.
Send the tenant a formal letter documenting the threat and notifying them that any further threats will be reported to authorities. Keep a copy for your records.
Consult with a landlord-tenant attorney about options for protection like restraining orders. The courts may be able to bar a tenant from contacting you if they pose a credible threat.
Temporarily suspend all non-urgent communications and repairs until the situation is addressed. Focus on protecting yourself first before dealing with routine landlord duties.
Provide neighbor contacts in your letter in case of emergency while the issue is ongoing. Ask them to contact police if they witness any concerning behavior.

How can you establish authority as the landlord?

When tenants challenge or disrespect your authority, it is important to clearly reassert your role.

Refer back to the signed lease agreement and remind tenants that as landlord you expect respect, timely rent payments, and compliance with rules.
Use a firm but professional tone in all correspondence to convey you will not tolerate harassment or unreasonable demands.
Consider issuing a warning letter documenting the behavior and notifying them that further issues will result in non-renewal or eviction. Having a paper trail supports lawful termination of the tenancy if needed.
Enforce rules consistently and do not engage in arguments or justify your position. Remind them to direct all issues through established communication channels.
If the tenant remains disruptive or uncooperative after warnings, begin eviction proceedings by issuing proper written notice as required by your state law.

What steps can you take to safely remove verbally abusive tenants?

When the verbal abuse escalates or won't stop despite warnings, moving to remove the tenant may be your safest option.

Consult your state's landlord-tenant handbook or an attorney to ensure you follow all proper legal eviction procedures.
Serve the tenant a formal eviction notice by certified mail and in person if required. Photo-document the notice received with timestamps for proof of delivery.
File all necessary eviction paperwork with the court and see the process through to completion even if the tenant leaves earlier to ensure a formal ruling.
Ask for a police escort or security when removing a tenant's belongings due to prior threats or unsafe behavior exhibited.
Change all locks before fully turning over possession to prevent unauthorized entry once they are officially out.
Screen new tenants extensively and do not rent to anyone with a documented history of verbal abuse or aggression toward landlords.

Conclusion

Dealing with verbally abusive tenants is never easy but following the proper procedures and prioritizing your safety can help resolve these situations successfully. With the right precautions and legal support, landlords do not need to tolerate harassment. Documenting behavior thoroughly supports lawful and peaceful removal of tenants who disregard lease rules and respect.