Hi, I live in Rhode Island and I rented my basement out in March 2012 to a single girl. She signed a one year lease and told me today she is moving out August 1, 2012. She said she needs to help her grandmother and mother. Her mom owns a house and her mom's mom , and the mom's brother live with this mom. She paid me a security deposit and thinks she can use it for her July rent. She is also on my cable and agreed to a one year contract on my contract. I have been told that legally that she is responsibly for the rent through Feb 2013 and the security is not for her last months rent and that it is not due to her until the one year is up.. can you give me some advise on this?
Optional Information: Country relating to Question: United States State (if USA): Rhode Island Already Tried: A friends lawyer told me I have to activly look to replace her and when I do I have to give her her deposit back, but she is responsible to pay the rent until it is rented. She works full time at Lifespan hospital and does private work for an elderly man on Saturday and Sunday.
Hello and thank you for the question. I am sorry to read of this dilemma. Legally if she signed a one year lease term she is liable for the rent and the expenses she signed for the duration of the lease or until you find another tenant, whichever is less. You need not release her early. The only exceptions are if you agree to release her early or if the lease permits in writing for her to cancel early on notice. Good luck. Have a great weekend. Kindly rate the answer at least 3 so I may get credit for it.
Experience: Represent landlords and tenants