Renting After Eviction: A Step-by-Step Guide

An eviction is a serious mark on a credit report that makes it difficult to find housing. With some careful planning and discipline, however, people can find rental housing after being evicted.

Clean Up

Step 1

Pull your credit report. Make note of any old debts that have not yet rolled off, and make arrangements to cover those debts.

Step 2

Start saving. Having a sufficient amount of savings will add leverage when you speak to future landlords.

Step 3

Pay off any revolving debt in your name. Having an otherwise clean record will aid your chances of being able to sign a leasing agreement with another landlord.

Picking a New Place

Step 1

When looking for a new house or apartment, try to rent with smaller companies. Some of these companies will do an employment verification but will not do a credit background check.

Step 2

Be honest when dealing with landlords. Let them know you've had trouble in the past, but don't get specific about the nature of the eviction unless they ask.

Step 3

Let them know that you have since cleaned up your finances, and be prepared to provide recommendations from employers and show them balances on current accounts.

Step 4

If a landlord will not make an exception, be prepared to put down a sizable deposit. Having two to three months of rent paid in advance would be a great way to entice the landlord to give you a chance.

Tip

Seek the advice of a lawyer in having the eviction removed from your record if all damages have been paid.

Obtain copies of your credit report once a year to maintain balances.

Co-signers added to your apartment lease may improve your ability to rent.