Planning for eviction notices for a new investment property feels a bit like writing a resignation letter as soon as you've started a new job.
Yet evictions are a sad part of life. Sometimes, things don't work out between you and the tenant, and you must prepare yourself for all eventualities.
In this guide, you'll learn the intricacies of tenant evictions in Las Vegas and how to protect yourself as a landlord.
Know the Eviction Laws
Before you begin an eviction process, familiarize yourself with State law in Nevada. That will protect you against any legal claims from your tenants.
When evicting a tenant, you must cite fair and transparent grounds. That includes unpaid rent or violating the terms of the lease.
Significant damage to your property is another grounds for eviction. But you cannot evict a tenant without cause.
You could end up with a discrimination claim, for example. Nevada landlords must always stay up to date with any changes to the law that could impact eviction rules.
The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Currently, Nevada landlords must abide by the rules outlined in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. It outlines your responsibilities as a landlord, like lease terms and eviction procedures.
It's a legal foundation that will be used if your eviction goes to court.
Ensuring your lease agreement accurately reflects what's in this act is essential. You may need specialist guidance before finalizing the contract and getting your tenant to sign it.
The Eviction Notice Period
When giving notice of an eviction, you need a timetable. It must abide by Nevada law. This current states that tenants are offered a five-day notice if they haven't paid their rent.
That gives your tenants five days to remedy late payment or evict the property. This rule is there to stop landlords from evicting tenants without proper notice.
It offers all tenants a chance to resolve the situation amicably instead of immediately losing their homes.
When an Eviction Goes to Court
Suppose you give your tenant the correct notice to evict, but they refuse to leave your property. In that case, the next step is to go to court.
You will need evidence that you've followed the correct procedures, so ensure you have all relevant written communications. If the judge sides with you, they will instruct the sheriff to remove the tenant.
The tenant typically has 24-36 hours to move their belongings before this happens.
Best Practices for Tenant Evictions
Always approach an eviction with fairness, transparency, and due diligence. In many cases, a problem can resolve itself without you having to proceed further with the removal.
So, allow your tenant time to resolve the situation. Always keep communications open between you and the tenant, as that will help you discuss the problem directly instead of things escalating.
Evictions: Protecting Your Right As a Landlord
Evictions are never a welcome scenario. But if you find yourself faced with a troublesome tenant, you need to consider beginning the legal process for removing them.
Use this guide to help you follow the correct steps. And if you need more support, reach out to PMI Vegas Properties for our expert support.
