How to Rent an Apartment After an Eviction

Finding suitable housing after an eviction can present challenges. Landlords often conduct thorough background checks, and an eviction record can significantly impact a rental application. Navigating this process requires a clear understanding of what an eviction entails and proactive preparation. This guide provides practical steps and financial considerations to help individuals secure new housing.

Understanding the Impact of an Eviction Record

An eviction record is a public document generated when a landlord initiates legal action to remove a tenant from a property. This record details the eviction lawsuit’s filing date, the reasons for the action, and any court judgments or outcomes. Court records, including eviction filings, are generally considered public information.

Tenant screening companies access these public records and include them in tenant screening reports. These reports provide landlords with a comprehensive overview of a prospective tenant’s rental history, credit standing, employment, and income. An eviction entry on such a report often signals to a landlord that a potential tenant may pose a higher financial risk or might not adhere to lease terms. Landlords use these reports to assess an applicant’s reliability and ability to meet financial obligations.

It is important to differentiate between an eviction filing and an eviction judgment. A filing occurs when the landlord begins the legal process, but not every filing leads to a judgment where the court formally orders the tenant’s removal. While an eviction judgment typically remains on public record and tenant screening reports for up to seven years, the mere filing of an eviction case can also appear on background checks. Although evictions do not typically appear directly on a credit report, any unpaid rent or fees associated with the eviction that are sent to collections can negatively affect a credit score for a similar duration.

Strategies for Securing Housing

Securing new housing after an eviction requires preparation before engaging with potential landlords. Begin by identifying properties that may be more accommodating; smaller landlords or private owners often offer more flexibility than large property management companies with strict screening policies. Exploring non-traditional housing solutions, such as shared living arrangements or extended-stay options, can also widen the search.

As you prepare your application, gather proof of your current income and employment stability, such as recent pay stubs or bank statements. Obtaining positive references from current employers or personal contacts who can vouch for your reliability is also important. If possible, a positive reference from a previous landlord, even from before the eviction, can be valuable.

Craft a clear, concise, and accountable explanation for the past eviction. This explanation should acknowledge the situation, demonstrate lessons learned, and emphasize your current financial and personal stability. Presenting this proactively shows a commitment to responsible tenancy. Focus on your present capacity to be a reliable tenant, rather than dwelling on past circumstances.

Consider offering a co-signer or guarantor for the lease. A co-signer agrees to be financially responsible for the rent and any damages if you are unable to meet obligations. Landlords typically require co-signers to have a strong credit history and a stable income, often three to five times the monthly rent, ensuring they can cover the financial commitment.

Another option might be offering a higher security deposit than the standard. While the typical security deposit is one to two months’ rent, offering an amount up to the legal maximum, which can sometimes be three months’ rent depending on state law, can reduce a landlord’s perceived risk. Additionally, some landlords may consider accepting prepaid rent for a few months, though this is not universally accepted and some states may limit the amount of prepaid rent a landlord can request.

The Application and Approval Process

Once your preparatory materials are assembled, the next phase involves the application and approval process. When submitting your application, ensure the complete package, including your prepared explanation letter and financial documentation, is organized and presented professionally. Rental application fees typically range from $30 to $75 per applicant and cover the cost of background and credit checks.

During any in-person interviews or property walk-throughs, be prepared to discuss your eviction proactively, using your well-crafted explanation. This direct and professional approach demonstrates accountability and helps build trust with the landlord. Following up after submission, through email or phone call, can also reinforce your interest and professionalism.

If your application is approved, carefully review the lease agreement before signing. Understand all terms, including the monthly rent, the security deposit amount, and any other move-in costs such as a pet deposit or first and last month’s rent. Security deposits are typically refundable at the end of the lease, provided the property is returned in good condition, beyond normal wear and tear.

Should your application be denied, landlords are generally required to provide an adverse action notice if the decision was based on information from a consumer report, like a tenant screening report. This notice will include the contact information for the reporting agency and inform you of your right to obtain a free copy of the report and to dispute any inaccuracies. Requesting the specific reasons for the denial can help you understand what areas to improve for future applications.