[nfatema]

We rented our house through an agent and now the renter is leaving without paying the month's rent. The renter is telling us to collect the rent from the security deposit. It seems like they damaged lot of things around the house. I would like to know what responsibility does the agent play to see through that the renter does not violet the lease terms? And what should we do to make the renter pay their rent. Thanks for your help.

[ScottGem]

Unless part of the agent's responsibility was to screen tenants and do a background check and the agent did not do that then they have no responsibility.

As for the tenant, they have no right to tell you to use the security deposit for last months rent. But what you are going to need to do is itemize all the damages, then bill the tenant for those damages plus any unpaid rent. If they refuse to pay you will need to sue them.

[excon]

I would like to know what responsibility does the agent play to see through that the renter does not violet the lease terms?

Hello n:

Hopefully, you have a written agreement with the agent spelling out his responsibilities... That would be the place you should look to get your answer. The job of MOST rental agents is to secure a GOOD tenant for you. MANAGEMENT of the unit, however, rests with you.

excon

[Fr_Chuck]

The rules of the agent should be spelled out in writing.

But they are not liable for money the renter does not pay, they may or may not be able to file in court for you to collect and so on.