According to PNAS, around 2.7 million households face evictions each year. In a massive country like the USA, that may seem like a small number, but it does mean that your odds of evicting a tenant are around 1 in 50. That's still a small chance, but it's big enough to warrant that every landlord prepares themselves, just in case.
Evictions are already somber affairs; you don't want to make mistakes that will cause the process to drag out and get messier. Learn about how to avoid the most common eviction mistakes by reading this brief guide.
Self-Help Evictions
Engaging in self-help tactics like changing locks or disconnecting water to get rid of tenants is illegal in most parts of the world, including Utah. Many property owners assume they have "stronger rights" to do as they please because of ownership, but tenants have rights, too.
Going through the proper eviction process is the best way to balance competing rights. It will also spare you any potential lawsuits or criminal charges that landlords in the past have faced (depending on the severity of the self-help).
Preparing and Serving Paperwork Incorrectly
Utah mandates a strict procedure that landlords must follow when evicting tenants. Using this process as a foundational guide or checklist is an excellent way of avoiding eviction pitfalls.
One of the things the process may require is evidence of some kind. For example, you'll need proof that a tenant hasn't paid for the stipulated time or has consistently and grossly violated a rule. You can demonstrate these breaches with bank statements and complaint letters, respectively.
You'll also need to show that you served the correct notices in the proper order and at the right times. Skipping one of these steps or not having evidence to show proper cause can make evictions drag on and cost more.
Ignoring Less Extreme Options
One of the best tenant eviction tips is to use the minimum amount of force you need. Some landlords get ahead of themselves and evict tenants for the slightest infraction. If that backfires, the tenants may get to stay, but the relationship may become tenuous.
Tenant screening is a tool you can use to avoid getting bad tenants in the first place. You can also use eviction protection mechanisms to get tenants to stick to the lease agreement if the problems you notice are in their infancy.
Get the Best Eviction Tips in Utah
Evictions are an unfortunate part of the property management and landlord business. If you have to evict a tenant, you can make it as smooth as possible by avoiding common mistakes.
Ensure you send the correct notices and apply to the court to evict a tenant. Self-help is illegal and will cause more trouble for you than the tenant ever could. Also, keep good records and use eviction as a last resort.
If you need extra help with the eviction process, Utah Property Solutions can help you. We're a veteran-owned company with extensive experience in the Utah real estate scene. For the best eviction process tips, landlord legal advice, and property management in Utah, contact us today.
