Eviction is an extremely difficult process, but unfortunately one that all landlords may have to face eventually. In Pennsylvania, it’s important for landlords to understand the laws that dictate the eviction process in order to ensure they remain compliant and protect their rights as owners. Landlords must familiarize themselves with Pennsylvania landlord tenant law and be well-versed in what is needed from them when evicting a tenant. This article aims to provide comprehensive information about this legal procedure so landlords can feel confident and prepared for any potential eviction situation that may arise.
Step 1: Serve Notice To The Tenant
The first step in the eviction process is serving notice to the tenant. The length of time required for notice varies depending on the reason for eviction. For example, if your tenant has not paid rent, then you must give them 10 days’ notice before filing an eviction complaint in court. However, if they have violated another term of their lease, such as having unauthorized pets or guests living with them, then you must give them 30 days’ notice before filing an eviction complaint. It is important to note that this is just a general guideline and may vary depending on local laws or ordinances.
Step 2: File An Eviction Complaint In Court
Once the appropriate amount of time has passed since giving notice to your tenant, you can file an eviction complaint with your local district court. This complaint should include all relevant information about why you are seeking an eviction order from the court as well as any supporting evidence such as photographs or witness statements. Once you have filed your complaint, the court will set a hearing date where both parties (landlord and tenant) will present their cases before a judge who will then make a decision regarding whether or not to grant an eviction order.
Step 3: Hire A Constable To Execute The Eviction Order
If your case is successful and the court grants an eviction order against your tenant, then it is up to you (the landlord) to hire a constable or sheriff’s deputy to execute that order. This means that they will visit your property and serve papers informing your tenant that they must vacate the premises within 72 hours unless they choose to appeal the decision within that time frame. If they do not comply with this order within 72 hours then they will be forcibly removed by law enforcement officials and their possessions may be seized by you (the landlord).
Conclusion:
Evicting a tenant in Pennsylvania can be complicated but following these steps can help make sure that everything is done correctly and efficiently so that there are no surprises along the way. It is important to remember that when dealing with tenants it is vital that landlords follow all applicable laws so as not to get into legal trouble down the line. Additionally, if at any point during this process either party feels uncomfortable or threatened it is best practice for them to contact law enforcement right away as evictions can sometimes become volatile situations if mishandled properly. Therefore when dealing with potential evictions it’s best practice for landlords in Pennsylvania take all necessary precautions during each step of the process from start to finish.