Evicting a Tenant

[Frank Jennings]

For those that have evicted before, what is your first step? Do you serve the "Notice to Quit" or can you ask them politely to leave?

[Jill F.]

First what exactly do you mean by eviction? is this a situation where you just want your property back and the tenant is in good standing or do you want them out because they are violating the lease (non payment or other reasons)?  

Second, I frequently hear people use the word eviction when they really just want to non-renew a lease. Is this tenant on a term lease or are they at-will (month-to-month)?

Third, your state, county, and sometimes city really matter with regard to the process if you are taking legal action. Is your property in Pittsburgh? 

Fourth, at least here in Ohio, the ownership of the property also matters with regard to who can file a lawsuit. If you hold the property in an LLC a lawyer must sign the filing, if you own it as an individual, you can file it.

Regardless of the situation, I make every effort to be polite throughout the entire process. Even though you are presumably taking action based on your financial needs, it helps to recognize that tenants sometimes view changes (or even potential changes) that impact their living situation as more personal or emotional decisions.