How to Evict a Tenant
In an unfortunate circumstance, a landlord may need to evict a tenant. The eviction process formally begins when the landlords provides the tenant with an eviction letter. Listed below are steps to follow when writing an eviction letter.
Step 1 - Review the rental agreement between the landlord and the tenant. Identify the clauses in the rental agreement that have been violated by the tenant.
Step 2 - Each province may have specific laws regarding the eviction process. Review your provincial laws in order to ensure that the infraction committed by the tenant is covered. This step should be completed before writing an eviction letter.
Step 3 - Begin the eviction letter with the date, the landlords name and address, and the tenants name and address. The date on the eviction letter should correspond to the date the eviction letter will be delivered to the tenant.
Step 4 - In the eviction letter, clearly identify the address of your rental property and the reason the tenant is being evicted. For example, a tenant may be evicted for:
- Failing to pay rent
- Severely damaging the rental property
- Having a pet, when it is prohibited by the rental agreement
- Excessive load noise
- etc.
The eviction letter should also contain:
- Dates when the infringement occurred
- References to the specific clauses in the rental agreement that were violated
- Mention of any previous warnings given to the tenant
Ensure that the eviction letter states the date the eviction is effective on. For example, if the eviction is effective in 30 days, clearly state this date. Do not leave any room for misinterpretation.
Step 5 – Conclude the eviction letter by signing it. You can also have your eviction letter reviewed by a legal authority for correctness.