If a tenant vacates without paying the last scheduled monthly rent, what can the landlord do?

A landlord has the right to sue a tenant for back rent if the tenant vacates without paying the last scheduled monthly rent. This is based on the lease agreement, which typically stipulates that the tenant is obligated to pay rent for the duration of their lease. When a tenant leaves without fulfilling this obligation, the landlord can take legal action to recover the owed amount.

The option to sue for back rent allows the landlord to seek a judgment in court, which can result in the tenant being ordered to pay the outstanding rent, and in some cases, the landlord may also recover legal fees associated with the lawsuit. This established practice helps to protect the financial interests of landlords while also ensuring that tenants are held accountable for their contractual obligations.

In contrast, retaining the security deposit may not fully cover the rent owed, and ignoring the non-payment could lead to financial losses without recourse. Similarly, waiting for the tenant to return does not address the immediate issue of unpaid rent and could prolong the situation without resolution.