As a landlord, evictions are one of the hardest parts of your job. It's a difficult conversation that no one wants to have, but it's vital to keeping your business running.
The good news is that by understanding the process, you'll find each eviction easier than the last.
We've put together a quick guide to help you learn more about how to evict tenants without added stress. Read on to learn more.
Understand Eviction Rules
The first step is to know when an eviction is lawful. You can't simply get rid of a tenant because you've had an unpleasant conversation with them at one point.
In 2019, California issued a Tenant Protection Act that ensures every eviction has a reasonable cause. There must be a justifiable reason that you can defend if you go to court.
These causes can include:
- Failure to pay rent
- Lease violation
- Property damage
- Illegal actions within the property
- Causes severe problems with other tenants
It's your job to make the call when these problems occur. Make sure you understand the eviction laws so that you can protect yourself and your other tenants.
Attempt to Fix the Issue
Many problems with tenants are fixable. A simple chat with the tenant in question could be all you need to change their behavior.
Attempting to fix things before going straight to eviction will increase your relationship with all of your tenants. It also shows that you care and are willing to listen.
Start With a Notice
Once you find eviction to be necessary, you need to start by giving the tenant notice. Tell them why this is happening and how long they have before they need to leave.
Hopefully, the tenant will honor the eviction and leave in due time. If not, then you'll need to take the issue to court.
At this point, it's often better to outsource management so that you can focus on your other important tasks.
File Forms
If a tenant does not leave within the deadline, a court is your next choice. Fill out forms for an Unlawful Detainer to your local courthouse.
Make sure you have all of your documents ready, such as a copy of the lease, eviction notice, and any evidence as to why the tenant was evicted in the first place.
Fulfill Ruling
After the court rules on your case, regardless of the outcome, it's up to you to fulfill the ruling. Even if you disagree with the ruling, you shouldn't treat the tenant differently from other tenants.
When the ruling is in your favor and the tenant still won't leave, reach out to law enforcement. Show them the ruling and necessary documents so that they can free your space for a new tenant as soon as possible.
Evictions Are Never Easy But You Can Get Help
A landlord's job is difficult, but that doesn't mean you have to deal with it alone. Reaching out to a property management company will make evictions easier for you.
We've been in the property management business since 2010. We know how to handle tricky eviction situations with professionalism so that you don't have to worry.
Check out our services to learn more about how we can help you every step of the way!
