How to Rent After an Eviction
Eviction is the expulsion of a tenant from a rental unit by the property owner, before lease term ends. A landlord can evict a tenant “without cause” or “for cause”. The “without cause” eviction refers to a situation when the landlord simply wants the tenant to leave his property, without the latter being in breach of the lease. Whereas, the “for cause” eviction is usually the consequence of breach of lease by the tenant, such as non-payment of rent, damage to the rental unit due to negligence or allowing criminal activity to take place in the rental property.
While “without cause” eviction is not in the hands of the tenant, one should try to prevent “for cause” eviction as much as possible. However, there are certain inevitable circumstances, such as sudden illness or injury or an unexpected job loss, that may lead to eviction due to non-payment of rent. Finding a place to rent after eviction could be a strenuous task since your prospective landlords, keeping in view your renting history, would fear you may not be able to pay rent, or cause damage to their property or get involved in any other activity prohibited as per lease contract. But there are a few simple steps which you can follow to increase the possibility of finding a new apartment to rent after an eviction.
Do not apply for a new rental unit straight away, if possible
It is recommended to avoid applying for a new lease contract soon after being evicted, instead share an apartment. Make an informal agreement with your roommate, asking him/her to put the lease under his/her name and agree to pay for the utilities and bills. Make sure you pay the monthly utilities in full and on time. This will help you improve your record of meeting financial commitments.
Meet the prospective landlords directly
If you are renting a place after eviction then it is a good idea to directly meet the prospective landlords. This way you will be able to clear you position in a better way.
Make a good impression
Make a good impression at the prospective landlord at your first meeting. Time the visit appropriately and then don’t make the landlord wait for you for a couple of hours, instead show up for the meeting a few minutes early, but not too early. Dress yourself in neat and clean clothes and ensure your vehicle is also in clean and tidy condition.
Discuss the eviction issue directly with the landlord
If your eviction was due to non-payment of rent and is on your credit report then it’s better to discuss the issue directly with the landlord, and not wait for the latter to find it himself. Also provide an explanation for the situation, for example tell the landlord that you could not pay the rent in time because you were jobless, or facing any other financial crisis or life changing situation. This will help your new landlord better understand your situation and make a decision.
