Some rental arrangements are open-ended. Landlords provide month-to-month leases, and tenants can stay indefinitely. Annual leases or two-year leases are subject to renewal requirements but can also allow for long-term tenancy.
It is usually most cost-effective and convenient for everyone involved if the tenant stays for more than one month or one year. However, sometimes landlords must take action to remove a problem tenant from their property. They must comply with state statutes that extend legal protections to tenants and limit eviction proceedings.
When can landlords lawfully evict tenants who do not want to leave a rented space?
When a lease expires
Provided that landlords give tenants appropriate notice, choosing not to renew a lease is a reasonable decision. If the tenant refuses to leave after their lease expires, the landlord may be able to initiate eviction proceedings to reclaim access to the unit.
When the tenant doesn’t pay rent
Landlords often rely on regular rent payments to cover taxes, insurance and loans for their properties. When tenants don’t pay their rent, landlords can seek to evict them and replace them with a tenant who pays what they should every month.
When the tenant breaks their lease
Lease violations could involve having a pet without permission or a secret roommate. Committing crimes at the property or causing major damage to the facility could also constitute lease violations. Landlords with proof that tenants violated the lease may be able to evict them because of those contract violations.
Complying with the laws limiting evictions and protecting tenants can make it easier for landlords to effectively monetize their properties. Those preparing for eviction proceedings may need support with the paperwork and legal process ahead, and that’s okay.