015-Today in Prop Mgmt: Eviction day!

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Today we had a "lockout" for an eviction that had been in process for awhile. Both tenants were actually in jail when it came time to serve the eviction and we thought we were going to have to get them served in jail, but they were released before that happened. Luckily for us, the tenants had vacated the night before and took 95% of their stuff with them. There was some definite damage inside the apartment, but we've seen much, much worse. We are appreciative of the Humboldt County Sheriff's Department and their assistance with all of our evictions.

Believe it or not, most landlords do not like evicting their tenants. In my property management world, there are two main reasons a tenant gets evicted. Yes, non-payment of rent is usually the primary reason. However, evictions based on rental contract violations are just as frequent. I think we are very fair when it comes to working with tenants about delinquent rent or contract violation complaints.

Non-payment of rent: We get it- sometimes tenants get behind. Unexpected expenses come up. Jobs are lost. Cars break down. Things happen. We are in some challenging financial times right now. However, the thing we tell our tenants repeatedly is communicate-communicate-communicate.

Tips to consider for someone that is potentially facing an eviction:

1. Over-communicate with your landlord or property manager ("PM"). Open communication is crucial. If you're experiencing challenges that will impact your ability to pay rent, inform your landlord as soon as possible. Discuss the situation openly, explaining the circumstances and exploring potential solutions. Many landlords are willing to work out payment plans or negotiate alternatives to eviction, if they are kept informed.

2. Write out a payment plan showing how much will be paid and the dates the payments will occur. And stick to it. A landlord or PM is much more willing to work with the tenant, if the tenant has a solid plan to get caught up. It needs to be a reasonable amount for a payment so getting current is within reason. Don't forget to calculate in the rent that is coming due as well as the past due amount.

3. Seek financial assistance: There are a lot of programs out there that can help tenants through a one-time hardship. Check with agencies and organizations that provide rental assistance or emergency funds to individuals facing eviction. There is no guarantee that these funds will be available, but it is worth a try.

4. Explore relocation assistance to a less expensive rental unit. Rents have increased everywhere and sometimes finding a less expensive place to live is an option.

5. Another option is to find a roommate to move in with you to help share the costs. Most rental contracts do not allow tenants to just move any people in, so get permission from your landlord or PM before you do this. Your roommate may need to complete an application with the landlord or PM, and you both may need to sign a new rental contract.

Rental contract violations: The most frequent violation we experience is disturbing the neighbors. I will save this info for another post on another day.

Hardships and financial challenges happen, no matter who you are. However, if you take control of the situation, communicate with the others involved in the situation, and follow through with what you say you will do, you can protect your living space and preserve your peace of mind during a difficult time. Do it and make yourself proud!