Evicting a tenant is a serious matter that requires careful consideration and proper legal procedures. Homeowners Association (HOA) representatives often find themselves caught between maintaining community standards and respecting tenants’ rights.
Understanding the legitimate reasons for eviction can help HOAs reduce the risk of legal pitfalls. This blog will explore common tenant issues that may lead to eviction, empowering HOA representatives with the knowledge to make more informed decisions.
Grounds for eviction
Failure to pay rent on time and in full is a common problem among renters. In Florida, much like in several other states, this issue is one of the most common grounds for a lawful eviction.
If a tenant fails to pay their rent on time, the property owner may issue a three-day notice. This step allows the tenant to pay the rent in full within three days or vacate the property. If the tenant neither pays nor leaves the leased premises, the landlord and the HOA may evict them.
A property owner also has the right to evict a tenant who uses the property for illegal transactions and activities. If the landlord discovers any criminal activities within the premises, they may issue a seven-day unconditional quit notice, which provides ample time for the tenant to take their things and leave.
They can give the same notice to tenants who cause excessive damage to the property. If the damage decreases the property’s value or makes it uninhabitable, the landlord may ask the tenant to leave.
Avoiding unlawful evictions
Property owners and HOA representatives may seek legal counsel to prevent unlawful evictions and ensure compliance with Florida law. By staying informed and acting reasonably, HOAs can help maintain harmonious communities.
