In this hot rental market, WHY would you even consider these sub-standard renters?

They are already working you over by making you hustle to fix a problem they created. Don’t expect this to change. Once they get the keys, they have possession and all the rights our lovely state confers to renters.

If these are friends-of-family or someone you just must rent to as a personal favor to Uncle Bob, then do yourself a favor and consider doing month-to-month which will at least give you some eviction leverage if they don’t pay the rent.

I’d highly recommend that you consider joining the San Diego County Apartment Association, as they provide training on tenant screening.