Sarasota's eviction numbers are low when compared to other communities, but hundreds of tenants are still evicted each year.
If you're a property owner, you never want to have to evict one of your tenants. The fact of the matter, however, is that you need to protect your property against bad actors. Evictions are often the only answer.
In today's post, we'll give you a guide to the Sarasota eviction process. Keep reading and you'll have the tenant eviction tips you need to get a bad tenant out of your property so that you can find a good one.
Understanding Florida Rental Laws
Florida law protects both landlords and tenants. As a landlord, you must follow specific rules before you can evict a tenant. The reasons for eviction must fall into one of three categories: non-payment of rent, lease violations, or the end of a lease agreement.
To start the eviction process, you must provide proper notice to the tenant. The type of notice depends on the reason for eviction. For non-payment of rent, you must give a three-day notice. For lease violations, a seven-day notice is required.
Landlords cannot take matters into their own hands. Florida law prohibits actions like changing the locks or shutting off utilities without a court order. Following the legal process is essential to avoid penalties.
Steps to Carry Out Lawful Evictions
Landlord legal steps can feel complicated. The first step is to give your tenant a written notice, which must include the reason for eviction and the time frame to resolve the issue or vacate the property. Make sure to deliver the notice in person or post it on the tenant's door.
If the tenant does not comply with the notice, you can file an eviction lawsuit. Go to the Sarasota County Clerk of Court to file the necessary paperwork. You'll need to pay a filing fee and provide a copy of the notice and lease agreement.
The Sarasota Eviction Process
Once the lawsuit is filed, the tenant must be served with a summons and complaint. A sheriff or certified process server will handle this step. The tenant then has five business days to respond.
Should the tenant dispute the eviction, a court hearing will be scheduled. Bring all relevant documents, such as the lease, notice, and proof of non-payment or lease violations. The judge will decide whether to grant the eviction.
If the court rules in your favor, you will receive a writ of possession. This document gives the tenant 24 hours to leave the property. If they fail to vacate, law enforcement can remove them and you'll be free to rent it out again.
Get Eviction Help From Property Management in Sarasota
Evictions can be tricky, even when you follow all of the right steps. With the help of a great property manager, however, you can get poor tenants out of your property with ease.
PMI Sarasota is the top property management choice in the area. With our help, you can get rid of harmful tenants and find new ones who make your life easier and bring steady returns to your investment. Contact us today to learn all about our services and how they'll benefit your operation.
