Can You Get an Apartment With an Eviction?

An eviction record can present significant challenges when seeking new housing. Many landlords view a past eviction as a substantial risk, making securing an apartment more difficult. However, it is often possible to navigate the rental market successfully even with an eviction history. This involves understanding how evictions are reported, preparing a strong application, and exploring various avenues for housing.

How Evictions Impact Rental Applications

Landlords routinely use tenant screening reports to assess a prospective renter’s history and reliability. These reports compile information from public records and eviction databases. Court-ordered evictions become part of the public record, accessible through these services.

Credit reports may reflect collection accounts for unpaid rent or damages. These delinquencies can negatively impact a credit score, signaling financial instability. Eviction records typically remain visible on tenant screening reports and public records for about seven years. This extended visibility means an eviction can affect rental applications for a considerable period. Landlords often perceive an eviction as a red flag, indicating a higher risk of late payments, property damage, or future legal disputes.

Preparing Your Rental Application

Before searching, understand the information landlords will access. Obtaining your tenant screening and credit reports allows you to review your record for accuracy. If you find errors, dispute them promptly with the reporting agency.

Gathering documentation demonstrating financial stability and responsible behavior can strengthen an application. This includes pay stubs, employment verification letters, and bank statements showing consistent income. Collecting positive references from employers or personal contacts who can attest to your character and reliability can be valuable. If you have a positive rental history since the eviction, obtain a reference from that landlord.

Crafting a clear explanation for the eviction is a proactive step. This letter should concisely describe the circumstances that led to the eviction, without excuses. Articulate lessons learned and steps taken to prevent recurrence. This explanation demonstrates accountability and a commitment to being a responsible tenant.

Strategies for Securing Housing

When applying, present your explanation letter upfront with your application or during an initial conversation. Being transparent about your past can build trust and show commitment to being a reliable tenant. This proactive communication allows you to control the narrative and address concerns directly.

To enhance your appeal, offer incentives that mitigate perceived risks. This might include offering a larger security deposit, if local regulations permit. Another option, if legally allowed, is to offer several months’ rent in advance, demonstrating financial commitment. Providing proof of renter’s insurance can reassure landlords that damages or liabilities are covered. Always verify the legality of these arrangements within your jurisdiction.

Exploring alternative housing options can broaden your opportunities. Private landlords or smaller property owners often have more flexibility in screening criteria than large corporate management companies. Some housing authorities or non-profit organizations offer “second-chance” or “eviction-friendly” programs to assist individuals with past evictions in finding stable housing. Securing a co-signer or guarantor can reduce the landlord’s risk, as they agree to be responsible for the rent if you cannot pay. For immediate or temporary needs, exploring extended-stay hotels or short-term sublets can provide a bridge while you continue your search for a long-term rental.