Evictions, while often portrayed as overly harsh, are not arbitrary actions taken by landlords to displace tenants. There are usually clear reasons behind eviction notices, and they can indeed be a stressful experience. However, it’s essential to recognize that there are ways to avoid it and protect your housing stability.
The mere thought of being removed from your house can be overwhelming. It’s a situation that can disrupt your life, affect your financial stability, and lead to emotional distress. The stress of eviction often stems from the uncertainty it brings. Will you have to leave your home? Where will you go? How will you afford another place to live? Here we will outline the legal reasons for eviction, ways to prevent it, and how to defend yourself should the eviction be unfair.
How Do You Know if You’re Getting Evicted
There are only a few legal ways that signify eviction. The most common is to be told directly by your landlord or property manager. This can be done verbally, but is often delivered in writing. Another way you might be notified is through court summons. This will require you to attend a hearing where you’ll have the opportunity to defend your case.
In Massachusetts, it’s illegal for landlords to personally remove tenants. If you are being ordered to evict and have not been given proper notice, seek legal advice. Similarly, if you feel as though there are no grounds for your eviction, speak with an attorney.
Common Reasons for Eviction
There are a variety of reasons a property manager or landlord might call for an eviction. The circumstances and regulations vary from state to state, but here are a few of the most common ones.
Non-payment of Rent
This is the most frequent cause of eviction. If a tenant consistently fails to pay rent on time, landlords may have no choice but to innitiate the process.
Lease Violations
Violating the terms of your lease agreement, such as housing unauthorized pets, subletting without permission or partaking in any form of illegal/criminal activity is ground for eviction.
Nuisance Behavior
Repeated disruptive behavior or engaging in illegal activities on the property can be grounds for eviction. Behaviors can range from drugs to frequent and disruptive noise complaints.
Property Damage
Excessive damage to the property can lead to eviction. This does not include any minimal wear and tear that is common with rentals but rather more aggressive damages such as a hole in the wall.
Failure to Vacate
If a tenant continues to occupy the property after the lease has expired or without the landlord’s consent, eviction may occur.
Ways to Avoid Eviction
While facing eviction is undoubtedly stressful, there are steps you can take to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Pay Rent on Time
The most straightforward way to avoid eviction is to consistently pay your rent on time. If you’re facing financial difficulties or other legitimate issues, communicate with your landlord to work out a solution.
Understand Your Lease
Familiarize yourself with the terms of your lease agreement and follow them diligently. Written communication is a beautiful thing that you can always go back to to read over. Remember that whatever is in the agreement is not just a suggestion but a rule.
Open Communication
If you encounter difficulties that may affect your ability to pay rent or adhere to lease terms, communicate with your landlord promptly. Many landlords and property managers are willing to work with tenants rather than just punish them.
Once someone has an eviction on their rental record, it will take at least seven years for it to be removed. This can cause difficulties with finding other housing. We recommend being upfront about it on your application and providing evidence beyond a reasonable doubt, that you are ready for a new rental.
While the prospect of eviction is undoubtedly stressful, it’s essential to understand that there are usually clear reasons behind such notices. Remember that seeking assistance and support when facing eviction can help you navigate this challenging situation and protect your housing stability.