Move-out without returning keys

[MissMe]

I work at a LIHTC property in Ohio and one of my residents is losing her Section 8 assistance. Her former landlord reported she did not move out until June 30, 2008. My resident moved in here on December 1, 2007. The former landlord has been collecting subsidy money even though the resident hasn't lived there since Dec. The problem, it seems, comes from my resident turning in her 30 day notice but never returning her keys. Can the landlord wait 7 months to inspect the unit for abandonment? I have asked my resident to request a copy of all notices sent to her requesting rent during this time. (Her portion of rent was very small, but if she never paid it wouldn't the landlord file for eviction?) The landlord refuses to give my resident any information stating "Since you are a former tenant you are not entitled to anything in your file." Can this be true? I don't want to evict a good resident for non-payment because she can not afford unassisted rent. Please help!

 

[Michael Wechsler]

I'm not sure why a landlord has to inspect a residence for abandonment if the landlord received a 30 day notice of termination. Not turning in a key doesn't mean the tenant didn't leave. If the landlord wanted the key back then (a) the landlord should have sent notice, and (b) the landlord would charge the cost of replacing the lock and key from the security deposit. It would seem that the landlord would have a problem if someone reported that he received 6 months worth of rent for a vacant apartment where notice was given.