Understanding Eviction: Rights, Consequences, and Prevention

When times get tough, the last thing you want is to be evicted from the home or apartment you are renting. However, sometimes eviction cannot be avoided. Before your landlord begins the legal eviction process, try to sit down with him and discuss your situation. If you and your landlord can come to an agreement allowing you to pay your rent late, get it in writing. An accommodation is better than eviction.

Credit History

As with any other bill, you credit history will be affected if you do not pay rent and are eventually evicted. An eviction on your credit history will affect you longer than you may think. Future landlords may not rent to you, and if they do they may ask you to pay higher rent and/or ask for more money as a deposit. A poor credit rating also can end up costing you more money in the long run.

Legal Fees

If you are evicted from your rental you may be held responsible for all legal costs -- including, but not limited to, court costs and lawyer fees. Not only will you be responsible for your own court fees and lawyer, but you also may have to cover your landlord's filing costs and lawyer. You also may have to take time off work to attend any court hearings. Your landlord can request a hearing at anytime -- until he is paid off -- to get proof of your financial status.

Homelessness

If you are evicted and can't find an apartment you can afford, you could end up homeless and living in your car. If eviction is your only option, check out family and local shelters before the process is complete.

Wage Garnishment

If you are unable to pay your rent and court costs, you may have your wages garnished. If your wages are garnished, you may not be able to buy food or afford shelter. By court order, your wages can be garnished a certain percentage of your salary until the debt has been paid.