The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to landlords and tenants alike.
In Orange Park, FL, the situation has evolved as eviction moratoriums have ended and landlords now navigate new regulations, tenant expectations, and financial realities.
According to Eviction Lab, evictions in the Jacksonville Florida area have increased 17% over pre-pandemic numbers, with almost 14,000 evictions in the past year. It isn't easy navigating this arena, which is why we've written this guide.
This guide offers a practical overview for Orange Park landlords managing post-COVID evictions, focusing on legal compliance, tenant communication, and strategies to mitigate risks.
Post-COVID Florida Eviction Guidelines
Evictions in Florida are governed by state laws, which saw significant adjustments during the pandemic. The federal eviction moratorium issued by the CDC ended in August 2021, but it left a lasting impact on how evictions are managed. As of today, landlords must adhere to these essential principles:
Legal Notice Periods
Florida law requires landlords to provide written notice before initiating eviction proceedings.
Three-Day Notice: For nonpayment of rent.
Seven-Day Notice: For lease violations such as unauthorized occupants or property damage.
Court Involvement
Evictions require filing a case with the local court. Self-help evictions, such as changing locks or removing a tenant's belongings, remain illegal.
COVID-19 Considerations
While pandemic-related protections have ended, courts may still be sympathetic to struggling tenants. Documentation of unpaid rent and communication efforts are critical for a smooth legal process.
Effective Communication with Tenants
One of the key lessons from the pandemic is the importance of maintaining clear and respectful communication with tenants. Transparent dialogue can prevent misunderstandings and even help avoid eviction altogether. Here's how landlords can approach this:
Discuss Payment Plans
If a tenant has fallen behind on rent, consider offering a repayment plan. Many tenants may still be recovering from financial hardships caused by COVID-19.
Provide Resources
Inform tenants of local assistance programs, such as rental aid or community services in Orange Park. By showing empathy, landlords can maintain a positive relationship while working toward resolving the issue.
Document Everything
Keep records of all communication, including notices, emails, and text messages. These documents can serve as evidence in court if eviction becomes necessary.
Mitigating Financial Risks
Evictions can be costly and time-consuming, so minimizing financial risks wherever possible is wise. Here are some strategies that might help.
Screen Tenants Carefully
Post-pandemic, tenant screening has become even more important. Verify income, check references, and review rental history to ensure reliable tenants.
Use Lease Agreements with Clear Terms
A comprehensive lease agreement can help avoid disputes. Include terms related to rent payment, property maintenance, and consequences of lease violations.
Consider Legal Counsel
Eviction laws can be complex, and mistakes can lead to delays or legal consequences. Consulting with an attorney familiar with Florida landlord-tenant law can save time and money.
Evictions Should Be Avoided At All Costs
Do what you can as landlords to avoid evictions in your properties. This way you can avoid unnecessary conflict and financial issues. Good property management in Orange Park can help in this regard.
PMI Davis Realty is a full-service real estate asset management company that uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure your properties are fully profitable with happy tenants in them. Are you ready to change your property business's direction?
Contact our team to learn how we can help.
