Nearly 20,000 renters in Philadelphia face illegal eviction each year. As a landlord in Philadelphia, navigating the process of eviction can be daunting. Any illegal evictions can cause you a lot of legal and financial trouble.
To ensure an efficient eviction process, you need to understand the eviction procedure. Below is a guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
Landlord Advice: The Best Approach to Evictions in Philadelphia
While eviction may sometimes become necessary, ensure you approach the situation with careful consideration. Here are some things you can do to avoid eviction:
Hire Property Management
With effective property management, you can avoid potential evictions. Additionally, they can help you adhere to eviction laws, saving you time and potential legal complications.
Break the Lease
Don't rush for an eviction. Consider allowing the tenant to terminate the lease early if they need a few extra days to vacate.
Provide Government Resources
If your tenant is struggling to make rent payments, offer them information on rent assistance programs. This can help them alleviate their financial burden and maintain their housing stability.
Offer Payment Plans
Sometimes your tenants can face temporary financial difficulties. You can work with them to establish a feasible payment plan for rent collection.
Steps to Evicting a Tenant in Philadelphia
When faced with circumstances requiring eviction, landlords must follow a strict legal process. Let's explore the specific steps involved in the eviction process in Philadelphia:
Step 1: Eviction Notice
The eviction process starts with serving the tenant with an eviction notice. This notice should include essential information such as:
- The reason for eviction
- Required move-out date
- How the notice is being delivered
Ensure the eviction notice is delivered personally or posted in a visible location. Also, maintain detailed records of the delivery.
Step 2: File the Landlord-Tenant Complaint
If the tenant does not comply with the eviction notice, you must file a landlord-tenant complaint. Next, the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas will set a hearing date.
Step 3: The Hearing
Both you and your tenant will present your case to the judge. Once it's done, you will get the judgment within five business days. But if the tenant appeals, the process may extend to 9-12 months.
Step 4: Order of Possession
If the judgment favors you, you can obtain an Order of Possession. This means the police will enforce the order and remove tenants from your property.
Understanding the Eviction Process Timeline in Philadelphia
As a first-time landlord, you need to understand the estimated timeline involved in evicting a tenant in Philadelphia. While the timeline may vary depending on various factors, here's a rough outline:
- Eviction Notice: Ranges from 30 to 90 days
- Landlord-Tenant Complaint: Can take 10+ business days
- The Hearing: Judgment delivered within 5 business days
- Order of Possession: Issued 15 days after the entry of Judgment of Possession
The eviction process in Philadelphia may span approximately 2 to 4 months. However, the timeline may be extended if the tenant chooses to appeal.
Simplify Evictions in Philadelphia
Tenant eviction may seem complex and time-consuming. However, with the right approach, you can protect your investment.
Ready to navigate evictions in Philly? Look no further than Property Management International Greater Philadelphia. With over 20 years in property management, we can help you have smooth and legal evictions.
Feel free to get in touch with us to get started.
