|
Feb 07, 2010, 09:13 PM
|
 |
|
|
Member Since: Mar 2009
Location: So Cal
Posts: 3,342
|
|
Well...it sounds like there are two issues here.
First, the safety of the other tenants and the tenant taking the dogs out. If she is not able to control the dogs herself when she takes them out, who's to say that they will not get loose and cause damage to property or person. You, as the manager could be held liable by another tenant, if something were to happen.
Second, sanitation. There's not much you can do if the animals are soiling the carpet at this point, I don't think. The tenants will have to be responsible for any new carpeting/cleaning upon move out. However, if there is a smell inside the place that is noticeable outside of the home, this could be considered a violation of the lease/rent as it is disturbing to other tenants and can lead to health problems. I would think too that if they weren't taking the animals out and the animals were allowed to soil the carpet, this could be a health hazard.
My suggestion would be to speak with the tenants. Post a 24 hour notice to enter the property for inspection, so you can view any damage. At this point I would let them know that, due to safety issues, it might be safer if the husband can take the animals out, since he can handle them. And then request that they take them out at least twice a day to help decrease in home accidents.
If, when you view the place, it is worse than you thought, or you have serious health concerns regarding the environment, you could always call the local family/children's service and ask for a welfare check.
Just make sure you know what the laws are for landlord/tenants in your state. It may even be beneficial to contact an attorney that specializes in Landlord/Tenant Law.
Good luck. 
__________________
|