Final words on eviction of Section-8
In order to evict a section-8 tenant, as with all government work, the paperwork must be filled out completely and accurately. Eviction can only be accomplished through court action.
Section 8.f. Eviction by court action. The owner may only evict the tenant by court action.
There it is, short and sweet.
g. Owner notice of grounds
(1) At or before the beginning of a court action to evict the tenant, the owner must give notice that specifies the grounds for termination or tenancy. The notice may be included in or combined with any owner eviction notice.
(2) The owner must give the PHA a copy of any owner eviction notice at the same time the owner notifies the tenant.
(3) Eviction notice means a notice to vacate, or a complaint or other initial pleading used to begin an eviction action under State or local law.
Again, your best course of action is to consult a lawyer before taking any action. Hopefully you, as a good landlord, screened your tenants thoroughly (criminal, credit and background checks).
A crime-free lease addendum is a great device to use as part of your standard lease. Do not rent to people with criminal records. Ensure that every occupant of the household is listed as part of the lease. If they are not on the lease, they do not belong on the premises as a permanent house guest.
In the future we will discuss crime-free leases, give examples of language, and discuss in depth the steps you can take beforehand to ensure problem-free tenants.
