What action may a landlord take when tenants are in arrears with their rent under a written lease?

Study for the South Dakota Property Management Test. Study with quizzes and multiple choice questions, each question includes explanations. Ace your exam!

When tenants are in arrears with their rent under a written lease, the landlord has the right to bring court action. This action typically involves filing an eviction lawsuit, commonly known as an unlawful detainer action, against the tenants to recover possession of the property if they fail to pay rent.

Utilizing the court system is a legal procedure that provides a formal mechanism for landlords to handle non-payment issues while also protecting the rights of tenants. This process allows the landlord to potentially recover the owed rent and regain control of the property through lawful means. It's important for the landlord to follow the appropriate legal processes, as taking arbitrary actions without going through the court could lead to legal consequences, including potential claims of unlawful eviction.

In contrast, negotiating new lease terms may not directly address the issue of non-payment, and simply initiating eviction without notice could violate tenant rights and state regulations. Conducting a property inspection, while permissible in certain circumstances, does not directly resolve the rent arrears situation. Therefore, bringing court action is the most appropriate and legitimate response a landlord can take in this scenario.

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