In 2025, Cincinnati landlord David Miller thought he had seen it all—until a routine rental agreement turned into a disaster that would cost him over $40,000 and threaten his rental business. This is the true story of how one couple’s destructive actions and a slow eviction process turned a promising investment into a landlord’s worst nightmare.
The Trouble Begins
David rented his three-bedroom house to a young couple who seemed trustworthy. Their references checked out, and the first few rent payments arrived on time. But after just three months, the excuses began: a lost job, a family emergency, and promises that the rent would be caught up “next month.”
Communication soon broke down. The tenants stopped responding to calls and emails, and neighbors reported loud parties and suspicious activity late at night. David’s concerns grew as weeks turned into months with no rent and no access to the property.
Eviction Delays and Mounting Worries
When David filed for eviction, he encountered a maze of court delays and tenant appeals. The couple contested every notice, filed last-minute motions, and used every legal tactic to stay in the home rent-free. The process dragged on for nearly eight months, with David paying legal fees and losing income the entire time.
The Shocking Discovery
When the eviction was finally approved and David regained access to his property, he was stunned by the destruction. The house was trashed—broken windows, doors off their hinges, and garbage piled in every room. But the real horror was hidden: the tenants had injected spray foam insulation into the plumbing and HVAC systems throughout the house.
Sinks, toilets, and shower drains were completely blocked. The heating and cooling vents were filled with hardened foam, rendering the entire system useless. Appliances were broken, and evidence of hazardous waste was left behind, requiring professional cleanup.
The True Cost of Tenant Damage
Repairs and restoration costs quickly skyrocketed. Plumbing and HVAC systems needed full replacement, and the cleanup of hazardous materials required certified specialists. Insurance covered only a small portion of the damage, leaving David with over $40,000 in out-of-pocket expenses.
Even after repairs, the property’s reputation suffered, making it harder to find new tenants. The emotional and financial toll nearly forced David to sell the house at a loss, but he decided to fight back and share his story to help other landlords.
Advice for Landlords: Protect Yourself From Nightmare Tenants
- Screen tenants thoroughly—verify references, employment, and rental history independently.
- Be alert to red flags—such as sudden excuses, communication breakdowns, and neighbor complaints.
- Document everything—keep records of all communications and property conditions.
- Act quickly—start the eviction process at the first sign of serious trouble to minimize losses.
- Consult with a landlord-tenant attorney for guidance on handling difficult evictions and property damage claims.
Landlord horror stories like David’s show how vital it is to stay vigilant, use proper screening, and know your rights. Don’t let one bad tenant ruin your investment—take proactive steps to protect your property and your peace of mind.
