Eviction is not a complicated process, as over one million occur yearly in the U.S., according to Eviction Lab. However, managing tenant evictions poorly can lead to further challenges, such as financial losses and reputational issues. So, do you have a process in place to prevent such complications?
We have provided the following eviction process tips to help when they get challenging. Read on to learn how to ensure peace of mind when performing this critical step.
1. Understand Florida Eviction Laws and Local Ordinances
When you need to evict someone in Florida, you will need to follow the rules of the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This law demands that you offer specific notices to start the eviction process.
If they still do not exit, you can file a lawsuit and obtain a judgment. However, you cannot forcibly evict the tenant without this court order.
2. Adhere to Notice Periods and Timing Compliance
For non-payment of rent, you must provide a written three-day notice to either pay rent or vacate the property. If the issue is a different lease violation, the tenant instead gets seven days to resolve it or must leave.
3. Local Ordinances Can Influence Evictions
While Florida state law primarily governs evictions, local ordinances can influence the process. The City of Tampa has its own local ordinances regulating evictions within its jurisdiction. In general, a landlord must follow specific legal eviction steps to remove a tenant, including:
- Providing notice
- Filing a lawsuit
- Obtaining a final judgment
- Delivering the final judgment to the tenant
Even smooth eviction procedures can take up to six weeks, according to the Clerk of Court & Comptroller in Hillsborough County, Florida. During this time, it is essential to note that a landlord cannot evict a tenant without a writ of possession following a court order.
4. Consult Tampa-Area Legal Professionals
If you hire a legal expert to help with the process, make sure that they specialize in Florida property and eviction laws. They will then have a good understanding of the nuances of what you are undertaking.
Alternatively, if you work with a property manager, they will have access to lawyers with extensive experience in these cases. These attorneys can offer you a free consultation to ensure you get the advice you need.
5. Document All Communication and Notices
When communicating with a tenant, make sure to keep a record of every message. This practice doesn't only relate to physical letters but also text messages or notices on social media. All may become relevant in a court case if they suggest that you acted unprofessionally or did not contact them, or if they damage property in response to an eviction.
Manage Evictions Without Lifting a Finger
Simplifying the process of evicting tenants can take a significant amount of stress from your plate, giving you the tools you need to handle a tenant tactfully and lawfully. However, if you are still unsure of what to do after reading the above, you should contact PMI JCM Realty Group.
We can help you by providing our expertise, tools, and methods to ensure any evictions do not take more effort than needed. Contact us today to learn how and get a demonstration of our offering.
