Tenants/Landlords

General obligations of landlords and tenants

Landlord-tenant disputes are a common occurrence in the renting process, and many could be avoided if both parties were aware of their rights and responsibilities.

General obligations of tenants

Tenants should:

• Pay rent on time.
• Use reasonable care and not damage property.
• Properly dispose of garbage.
• Refrain from taking on additional occupants or subleasing without the landlord's written permission.

Landlords should:

• Make property habitable before tenants move in.
• Make and pay for repairs due to ordinary wear and tear.
• Refrain from turning off a tenant's water, electricity or gas.
• Provide written notice to tenants when ownership of the property is transferred to a new landlord.
• Not unlawfully discriminate.

Complete Landlord-Tenant Brochure

Eviction

A landlord may not evict a tenant without a court order. The landlord may begin eviction proceedings if a tenant:

• Damages property.
• Fails to pay rent.
• Violates terms of the lease.
• Injures the lessor or another tenant.
• Allows drug-related criminal activity on the premises.
• Fails to vacate at the end of the lease term.
• Gambles illegally on the property.

The tenant will receive a notice that an eviction lawsuit has been filed and will have the opportunity to be heard in court before any eviction.

FAQ:

Q - How do I evict a tenant for none-payment of rent?

To evict a tenant for none-payment only, you need to submit a Petition for Non-Payment of Rent form with court costs and service fee.

Upon filing, you will be given a court date, generally within 15 business days. If the judge rules in your favor, you will be given a judgment of possession. If tenant fails to vacate the property, you can file an execution (service fee required) and the Sheriff's Department will stand-by while the eviction is enforced.

Links:

The Greater Springfield Apartment and Housing Association

Greater Springfield Board of Realtors, Inc