Six Mistakes to Avoid If You're Facing Eviction
It's scary to be at risk of getting evicted from your home. If you are facing eviction, you need to handle the situation properly to maximize your chances of being able to stay in your home.
Unfortunately, tenants often make mistakes that put them in an even worse position when they're facing eviction. The following are six mistakes to avoid if you're in this situation.
Leaving your home right away
If you're facing an eviction, you shouldn't simply give up and leave right away. Your landlord has to go through a process before they force you out of your home.
Your landlord cannot do things like change the locks on the property or shut off your utilities to get you to leave. This means that you shouldn't become scared when you get an eviction notice. Stand your ground and use the legal resources available to you to fight the eviction.
Being unaware of eviction law in your state.
One of the first things you should do when you're at risk of being evicted is to educate yourself regarding the law. Eviction law varies widely by state. You should research the details of how the eviction process is carried out in your state.
Neglecting to find an eviction lawyer to represent you
In addition to educating yourself on the law, you should also seek out an eviction lawyer to represent you. Your eviction lawyer can consult with you on your situation and let you know what your legal options are for fighting the eviction.
Ignoring an eviction notice
Another bad thing to do when you're facing eviction is to simply ignore an eviction notice. Eviction is a problem that's not going to go away. The problem is only going to get worse if you ignore it. That's why you need to be proactive right away to maximize your chances of keeping your home.
Not looking into financial assistance programs
If you're behind with your rent, you're probably having financial issues that are making it challenging to keep up with rent payments.
It's possible that there are relief organizations or nonprofits active in your community that can help you get caught up on rent before you are officially ordered to vacate your premises through a court determination. Such organizations might also be able to help you find an eviction lawyer or pay legal fees.
Cutting off communication with your landlord
You should respond promptly to any communication with your landlord. A landlord is less likely to follow through with an eviction if you're willing to negotiate with him or her. You may be able to work out a payment plan to catch up on your rent if you keep the communication channel with your landlord open.
Contact Moss & Tapia Law LLC if you need legal assistance with your eviction case.