You're finally feeling a sense of normalcy as a landlord in Smyrna, Georgia. The pandemic is a distant memory, but its ripple effects are still knocking on your door - literally. A tenant who struggled to make ends meet during COVID is now months behind on rent, and you've exhausted every solution to help them catch up. Now, the once-unthinkable step-eviction-feels unavoidable.
But post-COVID evictions are not business as usual. Shifting laws, tenant protections, and community expectations mean you must tread carefully. How do you proceed while respecting the process, protecting your property investment, and maintaining your reputation?
Let's go through what to know about evictions after COVID in Smryna, GA.
Understanding Post-COVID Changes in Tenant Eviction Laws
While federal eviction moratoriums have expired, their ripple effects continue to influence state and local regulations. It's crucial to stay updated on both state and federal policies to ensure compliance and avoid legal pitfalls.
One significant change is the emphasis on tenant protections, which remains a priority in the post-COVID era. For example, tenants who experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic may have benefited from federal rental assistance programs, some of which are still accessible to those struggling to recover. While Georgia does not currently have active statewide eviction restrictions, landlords are advised to document their actions thoroughly and adhere to tenant eviction laws.
Many courts now favor alternative dispute resolutions like mediation before proceeding with eviction cases. Property management experts can help you ensure you're not running into any problems.
Landlord Rights: Key Steps in the Eviction Process
In Georgia, landlords typically issue a three-day notice for non-payment of rent, giving tenants a brief window to pay or vacate. For other lease violations, the timeline may vary depending on the circumstances.
If the tenant fails to comply with the notice, the next step is filing a dispossessory affidavit with the Cobb County Magistrate Court. This legal document outlines the reasons for eviction and formally initiates the court process.
The landlord and the tenant will then present their cases. Landlords must provide evidence, such as:
- Rental agreements
- Payment records
- Documented lease violations
To support their claims.
Exploring Alternatives to Eviction
Exploring alternatives to eviction not only helps landlords save on legal fees and turnover costs but also fosters goodwill and maintains stable occupancy.
Sometimes, issues leading to eviction can be resolved through open dialogue. Tenants facing financial or personal challenges may be willing to work out a solution if given the opportunity.
For tenants struggling with temporary financial hardship, offering a structured payment plan can be a viable alternative. This involves breaking down overdue rent into smaller, manageable payments spread over an agreed timeline.
In some cases, temporarily reducing rent or deferring payments can provide tenants the relief they need to regain financial stability.
Post-COVID Evictions: Now You Know
Post-COVID evictions can be complicated. With this guide, you should have an easier time figuring out the process.
Are you ready to hire property management support in Georgia?
At PMI Terminus, we combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to help Smyrna landlords manage challenges like post-COVID evictions effectively. As proud Atlanta locals, we're passionate about supporting our community with tailored property management solutions.
Contact us to get started.
