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Landlords & Tenants – Select the State you live in, get the answers you need for evictions.

Landlords & Tenants – Select the State you live in, get the answers you need for evictions.

  • Posted: Dec 15, 2023
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Find Eviction Laws, How to file an eviction, Learn the Eviction Process and State Specific Legal Forms.

Landlords & Tenants – Select the State you live in, get the answers you need for evictions.

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WHEN YOUR LANDLORD SELLS YOUR RENTAL HOME What happens?

WHEN YOUR LANDLORD SELLS YOUR RENTAL HOME What happens?

  • Posted: Jan 24, 2022
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WHEN YOUR LANDLORD SELLS YOUR RENTAL HOME

I just found out my landlord is selling my rental house – what does this mean for my housing situation?

 

TERM LEASE AGREEMENT

A term lease agreement is a housing agreement between landlord and tenant for a designated amount of time, typically 6-months to one year. If you learn about the sale of your rental property, and you still have a few months left on your lease agreement, your new landlord will not be able to kick you out.

When a buyer purchases a renter-occupied home, he must agree to take over the lease and honor the terms the tenant signed. A buyer can ask the renter to sign a new lease with him, but technically the tenant does not have to.

EXCEPTIONS TO HONORING A TERM LEASE

The only exception would be if your lease agreement has special conditions regarding a property sale. If your state allows it, your lease could contain language that says something along the lines of, “in the event of the sale, the current lease agreement will be void once a new owner takes over the property”. While it is possible that your lease could have this type of property sale clause, they are not very common.

Another exception would be if you and your landlord mutually agree to end the lease agreement, and you agree to move out on a designated date. In these cases, the tenant can have some leverage to ask for relocation fees from the landlord, since you are doing them a favor by moving out.

MONTH-TO-MONTH LEASE AGREEMENTS

If your current lease agreement is a month-to-month tenancy, you have less security when it comes to staying at the property during a sale.

If your landlord wants you to move out prior to an official sale, he merely has to provide you with proper notice to end tenancy and move out on a specified date. Most states require a landlord to give a tenant anywhere from 30-60 notice informing a tenant that tenancy will end and they need to move out. Some cities have even more lenient timelines, for example, landlords in Portland, OR, must give their tenants 90-days notice to vacate.

Remember, these notices to vacate are not evictions. They are friendly terms of ending a rental tenancy with your current landlord. While it can be shocking to learn you have to move, that is one of the realities of being a renter, your landlord can choose to sell his rental property at any time.

HOW TO HANDLE THE SALE PROCESS

Talk to your landlord. Hopefully, your landlord will be upfront about his intentions to sell the property and keep you informed as to whether he hopes to sell to another investor who will keep the property as a rental. He could be selling the property for any number of reasons, and the more friendly you are during the process, the more likely he will be to encourage the new buyer to keep you as a long-term tenant.

WORKING WITH A REAL ESTATE AGENT

A potentially frustrating part of living in a rental that is in the process of being sold is dealing with showings, inspections, and any property upgrades seller decides to complete the sale. These types of typical selling activities can be a huge disruption to a renter who wants to live in peace.

A lot of tenants feel uncomfortable with the idea of strangers constantly coming through their homes during open houses and showings. Unfortunately, there is little a tenant can do to complain about this part of the process. Your landlord must give you 24 hours notice (or whatever the notice requirement for your state is) before a real estate agent, inspector, or anyone shows up and enters your property – but he does not have to accommodate your request to always be present during these events. Try to work with your landlord to come up with a solution where you feel comfortable and your landlord is still able to sell his home. Remember the more accommodating you are during the sale process, the faster it could be sold and this whole ordeal will be over.

It is not acceptable for a real estate agent to just show up and enter the property unannounced. They must provide advanced noticed according to your state laws for entering the property. If this keeps happening, you need to speak with your landlord so he can relay the laws to the agent who may be unaware

 

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Learn how long you must keep a tenant’s abandoned property in your state.

Learn how long you must keep a tenant’s abandoned property in your state.

  • Posted: Jul 09, 2021
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Your tenant moved out, but left their possessions behind. How long do you, the landlord, have to keep the possessions before you are legally allowed to get rid of them.

 

What Is Abandoned Property?

When a tenant leaves the rental unit without notice, and the landlord believes they will not return, the tenant has abandoned the rental. Any possessions left behind are considered abandoned property.

What Happens to the Abandoned Property?

The landlord must first give the tenant notice of the abandoned property. After storing the property for a period of time, based on state law, a landlord typically has the right to sell, donate or discard the abandoned property.

State Laws for Abandoned Property

Below is a state by state breakdown of the different policies for abandoned property collection for landlord and tenants. The data has been sourced from the official government website of each state (linked below). Note that D.C. is not visible on the map below but is listed in the text breakdown of the state-by-state policy. While some states have no statute around the timeframe to collect abandoned property, Vermont and Texas have the most liberal laws, allowing tenants 60 days after receiving a notice to collect their property. Meanwhile, states like Delaware, Maine, Wyoming and New Hampshire are on the stricter end of the spectrum, only allowing tenants up to 7 days to recover possessions.

 

Alabama– Alabama tenants must collect abandoned property within 14 days of receiving notice.


Alaska- Alaska landlords have to keep a tenant’s abandoned property for a period of 15 days after sending a tenant notice of their abandoned possessions.


Arizona- Landlords in Arizona are required to store a tenant’s abandoned possessions for a period of 14 days after sending notice of the abandoned possessions to the tenant’s last known address via certified mail, with return receipt requested. A landlord is not required to keep perishables, abandoned animals or plants for this time. After 14 days, the landlord can discard or sell the property.


Arkansas- In Arkansas, any property left behind by the tenant can be disposed of by the landlord.


California- California tenants have 18 days to recover abandoned property. Tenant must pay storage costs.


Colorado- Colorado does not have a statute about abandoned property.


Connecticut- In Connecticut landlords must keep a tenant’s abandoned possessions for 30 days after giving the tenant notice before disposing of them.


Delaware- In Delaware, tenants have 7 days after receiving a notice to recover abandoned property. The landlord can dispose of this property after this period.


Florida- In Florida tenants have 10 days to collect abandoned property after notice if the notice is hand delivered and 15 days to collect abandoned property if the notice is mailed.


Georgia- If a Georgia landlord is granted a writ of possession against a tenant, he or she does not have to store any of the tenant’s abandoned property.


Hawaii- In Hawaii, a landlord has to send notice to a tenant’s last known address that they have 15 days after receiving this notice to collect any abandoned possessions. After this 15 day period, the landlord has the right to sell, donate or otherwise dispose of the property.


Idaho- In Idaho, a landlord must file an eviction complaint with the court in order to remove abandoned property left behind by the tenant.


Illinois- Illinois does not have a specific law about abandoned property.


Indiana- An Indiana landlord must store a tenant’s abandoned property for 90 days after giving notice.


Iowa- Iowa does not have a specific law for abandoned property.


Kansas- Kansas tenants have 30 days after a landlord takes possession of the property to collect their possessions. The tenant must pay reasonable storage fees.


Kentucky- There is no state law about storing a tenant’s abandoned property in Kentucky.


Louisiana- Louisiana does not have a specific law about abandoned property.


Maine- Tenants in Maine have 7 days after receiving a notice to recover abandoned property. The landlord must include a list of all abandoned items in the notice.


Maryland- Maryland does not have a specific statute about abandoned property.


Massachusetts- Massachusetts landlord-tenant law does not have a statute on abandoned property. The landlord should include a lease clause that describes what will happen to the abandoned property.


Michigan- There is no statute for abandoned property in Michigan.


Minnesota- A landlord must keep a tenant’s abandoned possessions for 28 days in Minnesota.


Mississippi- Mississippi does not have a law about abandoned property.


Missouri- Missouri tenants have 10 days after receiving a notice to claim abandoned property before a landlord can dispose of or sell it.


Montana- Montana tenants have 10 days after receiving a notice to collect abandoned property. Tenant must pay storage costs.


Nebraska- If a landlord hand delivers notice of abandoned property to the tenant, the tenant has 7 days to claim it. If the landlord sends notice of abandoned property by mail, the tenant has 14 days to claim it. In either case, the tenant must pay any fee to store the property.


New Hampshire- A tenant in New Hampshire only has 7 days after receiving a notice to collect abandoned property.


New Jersey- New Jersey landlords must keep a tenant’s abandoned property for 30 days after the tenant has received notice or 33 days after the date the landlord mailed the notice before they can dispose of or sell the property. Tenant must pay storage costs.


New Mexico- New Mexico landlords have 30 days after giving notice before they can discard or sell a tenant’s abandoned property. Tenant must pay reasonable storage fees.


New York- New York does not have a specific law about abandoned property.


Nevada- Nevada landlords must store a tenant’s possessions for a period of 30 days after providing a tenant with notice of the possessions. The tenant must pay any reasonable storage fees to recover the possessions.


North Carolina- If the property is worth less than $750 dollars, a North Carolina landlord can store the property at a nonprofit organization, notify the tenant and give the tenant 30 days to claim it. If the property is worth more than $750, the landlord should file an eviction claim with the court in order to dispose of it.


North Dakota- North Dakota landlords must keep a tenant’s possessions for 28 days after abandonment.


Ohio- Ohio does not have a statute about abandoned property.

Oklahoma- Oklahoma tenants have 15 days to collect abandoned property before a landlord can dispose of or sell it. Tenant must pay storage fees and any additional money owed to the landlord.


Oregon- Oregon tenants must contact the landlord within 5 days of receiving notice if the notice was hand delivered or within 8 days if the notice was mailed to arrange to pick up the abandoned items. The tenant has 15 days after initially contacting the landlord to actually pick up the items or the landlord can dispose of them.


Pennsylvania- Pennsylvania tenants must contact the landlord within 10 days of receiving notice of their intention to collect abandoned property. The landlord must store this property for 30 days. If the tenant has not contacted the landlord within 10 days of receiving notice, the landlord may dispose of the property.


Rhode Island- Rhode Island landlords must store any possessions that are considered abandoned for a “reasonable” amount of time. The landlord must make a good faith effort to notify the tenant of the possessions left behind and should keep copies of any efforts made to contact the tenant.


South Carolina- South Carolina landlords must only keep a tenant’s abandoned property if it is worth more than $500 dollars. The landlord must file a formal order with the court to dispose of it. Abandoned property under $500 dollars may be disposed of.


South Dakota- South Dakota tenants have 30 days to recover abandoned possessions.


Tennessee- Tennessee landlords have to keep a tenant’s abandoned possessions for 30 days.


Texas- Texas tenants have 60 days after receiving a notice to collect abandoned property. After that time, a landlord may dispose of it.


Utah- Utah tenants must claim the abandoned property within 15 days of receiving notice. The tenant must pay storage costs.

 

Vermont- Vermont landlords must hold onto a tenant’s property for 60 days after giving the tenant notice of the abandoned property. To claim the property within this period, the tenant must give a written description of the abandoned property and must pay any storage fees.


Virginia- In Virginia, if the landlord has given the tenant prior notice regarding lease termination and abandonment, after a tenant’s lease is considered terminated, the tenant only has 24 hours to collect any possessions left behind. If the landlord has not given prior notice, the tenant has 10 days to respond to a notice about collecting abandoned possessions. The tenant has 24 hours after this period to collect possessions.


Washington- Tenants in Washington state have 45 days to recover abandoned property. The tenant must pay reasonable storage fees.


Washington D.C.- The District of Columbia does not have any specific law regarding a tenant’s abandoned property. It is therefore up to the landlord to include a lease clause that states what will happen if a tenant leaves the property at the rental after move out.


West Virginia- West Virginia tenants have 30 days to claim abandoned property.


Wisconsin- Wisconsin tenants must claim the abandoned property within 30 days of notice or the landlord has the right to dispose of it.


Wyoming- In Wyoming, tenants have 7 days after receiving a notice to notify the landlord of their intent to collect the property. The tenant then has 15 additional days to actually collect the property.

 

 

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How to Read a Lease 101

How to Read a Lease 101

  • Posted: Jun 29, 2021
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How to Read a Lease 101

Someday, between the time you move out of your childhood home and when buy your first residence, you’ll probably find yourself staring at a lease. A lease is a contract between someone who owns real estate (the landlord) and another person who occupies that piece of real estate (the tenant), covering the conditions under which the tenant may possess, occupy, and use the property.

Reading a lease can be befuddling, and often the first impulse is to just go ahead and sign the thing, rather than try to wade through and decipher all the legal language. However, it’s important to understand that a lease is a legally enforceable agreement, and you could find yourself in a predicament later on if you fail to abide by the terms–the very ones you agreed to by signing on the dotted line. Before you sign, take the time to read the entire document.

Here’s what to look for in a lease to rent a dwelling, be it an apartment or a house.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • A lease is a contract between someone who owns real estate (the landlord) and another person who occupies that piece of real estate (the tenant).
  • A lease details the conditions under which the tenant may possess, occupy, and use the property.
  • Details about any deposits—such as an upfront security deposit or fees for parking or pets—should also be clearly stated in your lease, along with conditions for getting your money back.
  • In some rental arrangements, the landlord is responsible for taking care of all repairs and maintenance—whether it’s a leaky faucet or a broken air conditioner.
  • There are also agreements where the tenant is responsible for all the costs of repairs and maintenance.
  • If you have a pet, read the lease to find out if animals are allowed, and if so, whether there are any size or breed-specific restrictions.

 

Include Property Details

The lease should include basic facts and data about the property, including the physical address and the landlord’s name and contact information. It should also state the date the lease was signed; the beginning and end dates of the rental period; and options for lease renewal, including policies for rent increases. If any appliances are in the unit (such as a range, refrigerator, or washing machine), or if the unit is furnished, that should be included, too.

Define Deposit, Rent, and Fee Amounts

People tend to pay close attention to how much rent will cost each month, but there may be other costs that should be noted as well, including various deposits and fees. Details about any deposits—such as an upfront security deposit or fees for parking or pets—should also be clearly stated, along with conditions for getting your money back.

The lease should state particulars about the rent:

  • Monthly amount due
  • When it is due
  • Methods of acceptable payment
  • Any allowable grace period for late payment
  • Amount of any late fees

Utility Inclusion

The lease should indicate policies regarding utility service and billing. Be sure to find out which, if any, utilities are included as part of your monthly rent, and whether you are expected to cover any of the costs.

Some landlords, for example, pay for electric, water, and sewer services, while the tenant pays for cable and Internet.

Repairs and Maintenance

This is something to pay close attention to since it can end up costing a lot of money, time, and headaches. In some rental arrangements, the landlord is responsible for taking care of all repairs and maintenance—whether it’s a leaky faucet or a broken air conditioner.

In other situations, the landlord might repair or replace only major appliances but leave the tenant responsible for everything else. And then there are agreements where the tenant is responsible for all the costs of repairs and maintenance. There may also be stipulations about the maintenance of the yard or outside areas.

As you can see, it’s imperative that you read the lease to determine your landlord’s responsibilities—as well as yours—when it comes to repairs and maintenance issues. Make sure you’re clear on who pays for what, who arranges service calls, and the amount of time you and your landlord have to address any issues.

Pet Policy

If you have a pet, read the lease to find out if animals are allowed, and if so, whether there are any size or breed-specific restrictions (some rental properties allow most dogs, but not pit bulls, for example).

You might be required to pay a “pet deposit” that may or may not be returned once you move out (assuming no pet damage). Sometimes the “pet fee” is nonrefundable because it is used for treating the space for fleas and deodorizing and shampooing the unit’s flooring and upholstery after you move out.

In some cases, you might also pay “pet rent,” a monthly or yearly fee tacked on to your rent to cover normal wear and tear from pets.

If the lease contains a no-pets clause and you violate it by bringing a furry friend into your unit, the landlord generally has the legal right to evict you. A no-pets clause cannot be added to a lease once it’s signed, however, so your landlord can’t change the pet policy in the middle of your lease.

House Rules

The lease should describe the acceptable use of the property (e.g., “The premises shall be used exclusively as a private residential dwelling for the tenant and his immediate family only”), plus any policies for things like:

  • Maximum occupancy
  • Quiet hours
  • Overnight guests
  • Parking and storage
  • Smoking
  • Landlord right of entry
  • Granting access to maintenance workers
  • Property alterations
  • Long absences (on your part)
  • Insurance requirements
  • Eviction

Early Termination

The lease should explain what you need to do before moving out. How much advance notice is required? What type of cleaning are you responsible for? The lease should also state your options if you have to move out before the lease expires.

Can you sublet the property, for example? If so, are you required to find the sublet tenant, or is that the landlord’s responsibility? What are the penalties for breaking the lease if you can’t find someone to sublet?

The Bottom Line

To make sure you understand what you’re getting into, take the time to read your lease. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask the landlord for clarification, or consult a local specialist in real estate law. Bear in mind that while many of these policies are at the landlord’s discretion, others (such as the landlord’s right of entry and eviction) may be regulated by state or city ordinances.

Once you and your landlord have signed the lease, it’s a very good idea to save a copy. This document can become important if any disagreements arise regarding the property or anything related to your tenancy.

Also, plan on doing a thorough property examination before signing the lease. Check the general condition of the property and make sure items such as appliances, faucets, plumbing, windows, and window fixtures are in good working order. Note and document any existing damage in the lease or in a provided damage assessment form, and keep a copy of this with your contract—just in case.

 

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State Eviction Protection: the latest information on coronavirus-related tenant protections by state (and county and major cities)

State Eviction Protection: the latest information on coronavirus-related tenant protections by state (and county and major cities)

  • Posted: Feb 01, 2021
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State Eviction Protection

The chart below attempts to capture the latest information on coronavirus-related tenant protections by state (and county and major cities, if applicable). Please note that this information is changing hourly, and the chart might not reflect all current protections. For the best information about the status of evictions where you live, check your state’s judicial system or governor’s website. You can also contact a legal aid organization in your area.

In the chart, click on the state’s name to be directed to its official COVID-19 website.

State County or City Hold On Evictions Hold on Utility Shutoffs Other Tenant Protections/Notes
Alabama No No -Visit ALtogether to find resources for assistance in Alabama.

-Alabama’s Coronavirus Relief Fund.

-Public Service Commission states that it is confident no customers will experience interruption during crisis, and that after crisis period utilities will help with past-due accounts. However, the decision is left to individual utility providers.
Alaska No No -See the Regulatory Commission of Alaska’s COVID-19 utility information page.
-Information about housing relief and help for Alaskans.-Information for renters about 2021 rent relief programs.

–Alaska Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/4/2020)
Arizona No No -Arizona Corporation Commission’s ban on utility disconnects has ended, but many providers are extending the hold on disconnects and are offering assistance to customers. Check with your provider.

–Resources for individuals in Arizona.

-Arizona utility assistance programs.

–Arizona Department of Housing Eviction Prevention program.

–Arizona Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/4/2020)
Arkansas No Yes -Arkansas Public Service Commission ordered a shutoff moratorium during state of emergency.

–Arkansas Public Service Commission COVID-19 Resources

–Courts are still open and conducting hearings (not in person) when possible. Check with courts re: status.

–Arkansas Fresh Start rental assistance program.
California (local ban information) Yes: through 6/30/2021 Yes: until 4/16/2021 –Governor has announced that the eviction moratorium will be extended through June 30, 2021.

-On 3/4/20 Governor Gavin Newsom declared a California-wide state of emergency (N-44-20) that (among other price controls) automatically caps rent increases. Via two separate orders, Newsom also allowed cities and counties to enact their own tenant protections (3/16/20 Executive Order N-28-20) and to extend those protections through 9/30/20 if they choose to do so. (6/30/20 Executive Order N-71-20).

On August 31, 2020 Gov. Newsom signed AB 3088, which bans evictions of tenants who can’t pay rent due to COVID hardships until February 1, 2021. If the COVID hardship occurs between September 1, 2020 and January 31, 2021, tenants must pay at least 25% of rent due to avoid eviction. California has an information sheet outlining the eviction ban and tenant protections, and you can also read the text of the law for more information.

-Also see California Eviction Moratorium (Bans) and Tenant Protections for the status of bans in various California cities and counties.

-Utility shutoff moratorium for nonpayment until at least April 16, 2021 for most utilities. See the CPUC’s website on consumer protections during the COVID-19 outbreak for details.

–California Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/2/2020)
Colorado No No -Under governor’s order, landlords cannot charge late rent fees through January 31, 2021. The order also makes clear that the federal eviction ban applies in Colorado.

-See Colorado statewide utility tracker for information about whether your utility provider has put a moratorium on shutoffs during the crisis. You can also get current information about utility assistance programs on the PUC’s website.

-Check your court’s website to see status.

-Colorado’s Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP).
Connecticut Yes: until 2/9/2021 No (but see notes) -By order of governor, no evictions until February 9, 2021. (Also see Order No. 9T for details about eviction moratorium.)

–Moratorium on utility shutoff for customers with financial hardship is extended through October 31, 2020. Beginning November 1 through May 1, the statutory Winter Protection Plan protects against service termination for financial hardship.

-Connecticut Temporary Rental Housing Assistance Program (TRHAP)

–Connecticut Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/14/2020)
Delaware Yes: until 2/9/2021 No –Delaware Housing Assistance Program

-By order of governor, landlords can file eviction lawsuits, but courts must stay any proceedings. Law enforcement cannot physically remove tenants. Landlords cannot charge late fees. Utilities must work with customers who are struggling due to pandemic. Lasts until end of public health emergency (currently set to expire 2/9/2021).

–Delaware Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/11/2020)
District of Columbia Yes: until after emergency Yes –No evictions during state of emergency. Lawmakers have suspended the filing of eviction complaints until 60 days after the end of the state of emergency. Mayor’s order extends the state of emergency (and with it the eviction ban) through March 31, 2021. Also, landlords cannot send tenants notices to vacate during the ban.

-Utility shutoff moratorium extended until 3/31/2021.

-D.C.’s COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program (CHAP)
Florida No No -Eviction ban expired October 1, 2020.

-Most major utilities providers have said they will not shut off services. Check with your local provider.
Georgia No No –State of Georgia has a COVID-19 hotline: (844) 442-2681.

-Courts have discretion as to whether eviction hearings can proceed; check individual Georgia courts’ status here.

-Check the State of Georgia Public Service Commission’s website for a list of GA services that have suspended disconnections due to COVID.
Hawaii Yes: until 2/14/2021 Yes: until 12/31/2020 -By order of governor, evictions for nonpayment of rent suspended until February 14, 2021.

-Hawaii PUC ordered suspension of utility shutoffs through December 31, 2020.
Idaho No No -By order of Idaho Supreme Court, no jury trials in criminal cases before 8/3/2020, and no jury trials in civil cases until 10/5/2020. Remote hearings on all matters may resume on May 1, 2020.

-For financial and other assistance, the Idaho Public Utilities Commission has a county-specific resource guide.
Illinois Yes: until 2/6/2021 Yes: for most until 3/31/2021, but see notes -By governor’s order, no evictions (unless the tenant poses a direct threat to people or property) through 2/6/2021. Income and other restrictions apply, and tenants must fill out a declaration affirming their eligibility for protection under the ban. For more information, see the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s Executive Order 2020-72 FAQs.

–Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) announced that the state’s major utility providers have agreed to extend the ban on utility shutoffs through March 31, 2021. There is no ban on charging late fees, though.
Indiana No No –Indiana COVID-19 Rental Assistance Program.

–Indiana resource guide.

–Indiana Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/9/2020)
Iowa No No –Iowa Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/10/2020)
Kansas Yes: until 1/26/2021 No -By order of governor, no evictions allowed if the tenant has defaulted or violated the lease due to a financial hardship caused by the pandemic. The ban was extended through January 26, 2021.

–Utilities are required to offer payment plans.
Kentucky No No -By order of the governor, the ban on residential evictions is over as of August 25, 2020. On September 4, 2020 the governor rescinded paragraphs 1-4 of that order and replaced them with a new order in line with the CDC’s eviction ban.

–Kentucky Public Service Commission ended mandatory ban on shutoffs as of October 20, 2020. Late payment fees are not allowed through December 31, 2020. However, there are other protections in place, and many utilities have voluntarily agreed to not shutoff for nonpayment. Please contact your utility provider for options.

–Kentucky Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/4/2020)
Louisiana No No -Check your local court’s website to see status of hearings and trials.

-For information on utilities, visit the Louisiana Public Service Commission’s website.

-Louisiana Law Help is regularly updating its website with COVID-19 information for Louisiana residents.
Maine No No -By order of governor, evictions will occur under expanded time frames (meaning landlords must give tenants a longer notice period to move out/pay rent before they can be evicted). The Maine Supreme Judicial Court allows eviction filings and starting August 3, 2020 has lifted the restriction on scheduling and hearing eviction matters.

–Maine Public Utilities Commission ordered that the emergency ban on utility shutoffs will end as of November 1, 2020. However, as of that date, the winter restrictions on disconnections will be in place. Contact your provider for assistance.

-MaineHousing has created a $5 million COVID-19 Rent Relief Program.
Maryland Yes: until end of state of emergency No -By governor’s order, no evictions statewide during emergency.

-The Maryland Court of Appeals put a hold on all eviction proceedings that ended July 25, 2020. The court has issued a communication about procedures for and timing of eviction cases. See court’s August 11, 2020 Administrative Order for more information.

-Utility shutoff moratorium ended 11/15/2020. Maryland PSC is providing energy assistance programs.

–Maryland Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/4/2020)
Massachusetts No No –Legislative ban on evictions during COVID emergency; expired on October 17, 2020.

–Massachusetts state resources for renters.

-For utility information, see the DPU list of utility assistance resources.

–Massachusetts Info re: CDC Eviction Ban
Michigan No No -Michigan is offering an Eviction Diversion Program for renters who need assistance.

-Many Michigan utility providers are agreeing to suspend shutoffs. Check the MPSC website for your carrier’s current policies.

–Michigan Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/3/2020) and FAQs.
Minnesota Yes: until 2/12/2021 Maybe (see notes) -Governor signed executive order to suspend certain evictions (see order for details) during state of emergency. The order was extended through February 12, 2021.

–Minnesota Public Utilities Commission required state regulated utilities to extend consumer protections throughout the COVID emergency.
Mississippi No No –Governor announced that evictions can resume on June 1, 2020.

–Supreme Court of Mississippi issued order stating that certain counties may resume sending jury summonses on or after May 18, 2020; gives judges discretion on many cases.

-Mississippi has established a COVID-19 information website.

-Check the Mississippi Judiciary’s website for information about evictions, trials, and court access.
Missouri No No –Missouri’s governor’s COVID-19 announcements.

–Supreme Court of Missouri has directed courts to exercise discretion regarding cases (effective May 16, 2020) and appearances subject to certain Operational Directives. Whether or not your case will be held is left to discretion of judge.

-Check Missouri Public Service Commission’s website for information about utility shutoffs.
Montana Limited (see notes) until end of emergency No -By order of governor, no terminations, evictions, or utility shutoffs for those who meet the criteria listed in the order. All others may be evicted/have utilities disconnected. In effect until end of emergency (which lasts as long as the Presidential declaration of emergency).

-Renters can seek relief from the Montana Coronavirus Relief program.

-Visit the Montana Public Service Commission’s website to locate your utility service provider’s website and find out about status.

–Montana Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/4/2020)
Nebraska No No -Visit Nebraska Public Service Commission’s website to see list of utility providers who have agreed to not shut off service.

-Nebraska Public Service Commission is allowing utility carriers to seek reimbursement for providing service to low-income families.
Nevada Yes: through 3/31/2021 No –Governor ordered a moratorium on evictions through March 31, 2021.

-NV Energy suspended disconnections for nonpayment until September; check the State of Nevada Public Utilities Commission’s website.
New Hampshire No No -By order of the governor, evictions can resume on July 1, 2020.

-State has created the New Hampshire Housing Relief Program.

-By governor’s order, prohibition on disconnection of electric, gas, water, and telephone service will end on July 15, 2020.

–New Hampshire Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/4/2020)
New Jersey Yes: until end of emergency +2 months Yes: through 3/15/2021 (but see notes) -Governor’s order prohibits removal of tenants from residential properties, and postpones enforcement of all judgments for possessions, warrants of removal, and writs of possession.

-By order of governor no utility shutoffs through March 15, 2021. No cable or telecommunications shutoffs for nonpayment through November 15, 2020, and no cable or telecommunications shutoffs at all if there is a school-age child using service for educational purposes. See the order for further details and information about late fees.
New Mexico Yes No -See New Mexico’s website on the utilities’ response to COVID-19.

–New Mexico residents who have received an eviction notice should call the state’s COVID-19 general hotline at 1-833-551-0518.

–NM courts have placed a temporary moratorium on eviction. You must provide the court with evidence of current inability to pay rent at your hearing on the eviction petition. Eviction hearings will be held by video or phone, unless parties file a motion for in-person hearing. The NM Supreme Court has a FAQ page for more information. Moratorium in place until end of emergency (extended by governor until 2/5/2021 or until rescinded by governor).

-Many utilities have suspended shutoffs. Check with your provider for information.
New York Yes: until 5/1/2021 Yes -The state legislature’s COVID-19 Emergency Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2020 prohibits evictions until at least May 1, 2021 and puts various tenant protections in place.

-The New York Unified Court System issued memo on November 17, 2020 about procedures.

-No utility shutoffs due to nonpayment during the state of emergency +180 days.
North Carolina Yes: until 1/31/2021 No -The governor’s executive order 171 outlines the details of the eviction ban. The governor’s executive order 184 extends the ban through January 31, 2021 and provides further details.

-Also see the state’s FAQ regarding the eviction ban.

-Utilities may begin collecting and enforcing unpaid accounts on September 1, 2020. Check with your provider for more info.
North Dakota No No -A North Dakota COVID-19 Community and Nonprofit Response Fund was established.

–North Dakota Public Service Commission information on financial assistance with phone or internet service.
Ohio No No –Ohio Supreme Court has advised all lower courts to continue eviction-related matters. Not a requirement, so check with local court.

–Ohio resources for economic support.

–Ohio Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/4/2020)
Oklahoma No No -Evictions may proceed, but, by order of the Supreme Court of Oklahoma, anyone filing an eviction must certify that the property is not covered under the federal CARES Act.

–Oklahoma’s COVID-19 resources and assistance website.

-Oklahoma COVID-19 call center: 877-215-8336
Oregon Yes: until 6/30/2021 No (see notes) -Oregon legislators have passed a bill extending eviction ban until June 30, 2021. Oregon Law Center’s handout provides details about the ban.

–Oregon PUC list of utility providers who are suspending disconnects.

–Multnomah County eviction ban in place until July 2, 2021.
Pennsylvania No No -Pennsylvania’s eviction ban expired on August 31, 2020.

–Pennsylvania CARES Rent Relief Program.

–Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ordered ban on shutoffs until November 9, 2020. After that, utilities must take certain steps before shutting off. See October 8, 2020 order for details.

-Each court handles CDC Eviction Ban procedures individually. Notices are posted here.
Rhode Island No No (but see notes) -By order of supreme court, evictions can resume after June 1, 2020.

–Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission ordered halt on termination of service for nonpayment through November 1, 2020 for residential accounts. After that, the winter moratorium will be in place until April 15, 2021.

–Rhode Island Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/3/2020)
South Carolina No No -Any party pursuing an eviction must submit to court a signed, original Certification of Compliance with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.
South Dakota No No -Check South Dakota Unified Judicial System for status of cases.

-Check South Dakota PUC website for resources related to utilities.
Tennessee No No -Tennessee Supreme Court ordered that evictions may resume June 1, 2020.

-By order of Tennessee Public Utility Commission, the PUC had utility shutoff ban in place through August 10, 2020.
Texas No No -Unless there is a local order protecting tenants from evictions, courts can issue eviction citations, and eviction hearings can start as of May 19, 2020.

-For Texas-specific information and resources, see TexasLawHelp.org‘s website on Property Law Issues During COVID-19 and its publication, Evictions During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

-TXU Energy is offering customer support resources.

–Texas Info re: CDC Eviction Ban (9/17/2020)
Utah No No –The Utah Apartment Association has helpful information and resources for renters and landlords on its website.

–Utah Info re: CDC Eviction Ban
Vermont Yes: until end of emergency plus 30 days Yes: until 3/31/21 –Evictions are banned until the end of the state’s declared emergency (currently in place until February 15, 2021) plus 30 days.

-The ban on utility shutoffs (electricity, telephone landlines, and natural gas) is in place until March 31, 2021.
Virginia No Yes: until at least 60 days after end of state of emergency –Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program.
Washington Yes: until 3/31/2021 Yes: until 4/30/2021 -By order of the governor, the state’s residential eviction moratorium is extended until March 31, 2021.

-Utility shutoff moratorium extended until April 30, 2021.
West Virginia No No -By order of supreme court of appeals, judicial state of emergency expires May 15, 2020. See courts for information on status.
Wisconsin No Yes: until 4/15/2021 -State launched the Wisconsin Rental Assistance Program for people who have lost income.

-By order of PSC of Wisconsin, no utility shutoffs for residential customers until April 15, 2021 (PSC REF#: 399114).

-PSC of Wisconsin launched a customer service phone line for internet and phone service.
Wyoming No No -Wyoming Supreme Court ordered suspension of all in-person proceedings (with certain exceptions). Check court for status.

-Check Wyoming’s COVID-19 website for more information.

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