Eviction can be challenging to deal with, especially if you go through the entire eviction process and end up with a mark on your record. Not only can an eviction on your rental record make it difficult to find housing in the future, but this mark on your credit report could raise red flags when you try to apply for certain loans or housing programs.
Our article gives you a quick overview of everything you need to know about evictions and how long they stay on your record.
What Is an Eviction?
An eviction is the legal process of removing a tenant from rental housing or an area where they are illegally living, but have certain rights to the housing. Eviction is started by a landlord or property owner. This individual will give the tenant a certain time period to remove themselves from the property; this time period can vary based on specific state laws.
A tenant may need to go to civil court for their eviction, and this is more likely if you want to contest the eviction or try to minimize the damage from an eviction in front of a judge. At the end of the eviction process, a tenant will be removed from the property, and they will receive a mark on their rental report and credit report notating that an eviction occurred.
Can You Stop an Eviction From Happening?
It is possible to stop an eviction from happening when you are in the very early part of this process. For example, if you receive an eviction notice, you may be able to contact your landlord or property manager and discuss any outstanding rent payments or lease violations that led to the eviction notice.
In some cases, landlords might be willing to make a deal or payment plan with you to avoid the hassle of taking you to civil court.
How Long Does Eviction Stay on Your Record?
An eviction will stay on your record for a minimum of seven years, as this is how long it takes serious financial marks like this to fall off your credit records and personal records. In some states, your eviction may be visible for up to eleven years on your personal records and credit report.
It’s important to frequently review your credit and other public records, as you can see what might raise red flags when you attempt to rent again, or when you apply for certain opportunities, such as specific loans.
Can You Remove an Eviction From Your Record?
Once an eviction is on your record, it can be difficult to remove it. However, you might be able to work with credit reporting bureaus and record agencies if you have settled your eviction.
If you pay off your outstanding rent and move after an eviction case has made it through court, you can show this evidence to credit reporting agencies and potentially get your eviction removed.
This is very situation-dependent, however, and some evictions may simply need to stay on your record for a minimum of seven years.
Can You Rent With an Eviction on Your Record?
You can rent with an eviction on your record, though you may need to take more time researching landlords or property managers who would be willing to rent to you. In general, private landlords, as opposed to large rental companies, may be more willing to be flexible about lease terms and security deposits to ensure that you will not need an eviction once you move in.
You can also offer proof of employment, explanations for the previous eviction, and positive rental references to help secure any type of rental housing while an eviction is on your record.
Evaluating Your Eviction
Dealing with an eviction can be stressful, and you may be wondering if you are even able to rent with an eviction on your record. Fortunately, moving forward after an eviction is possible. Keep in mind that evictions stay on your record for at least seven years, while some states may keep these details publicly visible for up to eleven years.
Review your state’s specific laws and contact credit reporting agencies if you think that your eviction is eligible for removal from your record before this time is up.
