Eviction for Non-payment

Nonpayment of rent (or “other amounts due”) is the most frequent cause for eviction. Whether the nonpayment is involuntary (such as loss of job or high medical bills) or intentional (withholding the rent due to repair issues), the landlord will almost always win, meaning that the tenant will be evicted. Following are answers to the questions we are asked most often. If the answers don’t quite fit your situation, please call us.

Here are some frequently asked questions concerning evictions for non-payment:

(This information does not apply to mobile home owners)

Can I withhold rent if the landlord fails to make needed repairs?

Can the landlord evict me if he claims that I damaged something and I refuse to pay?

What kind of notice is required to start the eviction process for nonpayment?

If the landlord accepts part of the rent, does that stop an eviction?

What happens if I can’t pay or leave within 3 days?

What is “unlawful detainer?”

How does an eviction lawsuit begin?

What happens after I get the summons and complaint? What must I do?

What happens if I miss the deadline?

What happens after I file my answer?