How Quickly Should I Start the Process to Evict a Tenant for Non Payment of Rent?

By E-Renter Tenant Screening
Posted on November 21, 2008 under Landlord and Tenant FAQs | Be the First to Comment

There are many factors to consider in the decision of when to start eviction process. There will be a cost to you in time and actual expenses to complete the legal steps to evict a tenant.  The costs in relationship with your tenants is not as easy to measure, but can be quite large.

Tenant Relationships

Even the best tenants can occasionally find themselves in a situation where they need a few extra days to pay the rent. How you handle the situation affects your relationship with that tenant, of course, but also with all your tenants. Your goal should be to treat all your tenants fairly, and with some understanding.

Protecting Rental Income

You do want, at the same time, to protect yourself, your income, and your ability to evict tenants when it does become necessary. It’s important to be understanding of occasional late payments, but it is equally important to make it clear to all tenants that it won’t be tolerated if they are continually behind in their rent.

Written Eviction Policy

You should have written policy that clearly states your policy for late payments. Do you have a grace period? Is there a fee that will be charged if they are more than a certain number of days late? How many months late can they be before you will start the eviction process?

If a Tenant Does Become Late

When a tenant does fall behind, it’s important to speak to them immediately about their plans for payment, and reach an agreement with them. Be sure to keep a written log of all late payments, and your communications with tenants about those late payments. That documentation will be important if you do need to follow through with eviction.