For a period of several years prior to December 30, 1951, plaintiffs and their children occupied the 5-room dwelling at 613 West Dale Street as tenants, of defendant. At all times herein material, the tenancy was on a month-to-month basis. On September 15, 1951, defendant filed with the Area Rent Office in Springfield a “Petition For Certificate Relating To Eviction” (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “defendant’s petition”), in which defendant stated: “I desire possession of the property for reason 3 alterations and remodeling. I plan to tear out a petition (sic) and throw the living and dining room into one. Sand and finish all the floor. Have asbestos tiling put on the kitchen floor, put up Venetian shades. I have not contracted any work or purchased any material. Will begin work immediately.” On September 26, 1951, the Area Rent Director issued a “Certificate Relating to Eviction” (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “the certificate”), the perfinent portions of which were as follows: