If you have found yourself in the middle of a landlord-tenant dispute, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your legal rights and make sure you safeguard your interests. Whether you currently live in a rental unit or you own rental property, disagreements can surface for a host of reasons and a dispute could have a significant impact on you financially and emotionally.
Sometimes, the possibility of eviction arises. Whether you currently face the threat of eviction or you want to evict a tenant, it is pivotal to thoroughly go over your options.
Different reasons why evictions take place
The New Jersey Courts go over some of the typical reasons why landlords decide to evict a tenant. Many evictions occur because of a tenant falling behind on rent payments or paying rent late repeatedly. Sometimes, landlords evict tenants over drug convictions or property damage, and some evictions occur because a tenant violated regulations outlined in the rental agreement.
Dealing with a possible eviction
Aside from failing to pay rent, landlords have to provide tenants with written notice to stop certain types of conduct before they can file a complaint and move forward with an eviction. After the filing of a complaint, a case management conference will take place, after which the case will head to trial.
Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, it is pivotal to prepare for trial and gather relevant evidence, such as rent receipts, pictures, witnesses, leases and other documents that could help your case. Handling a landlord-tenant dispute involving eviction is often very challenging and emotional, but you need to stay focused and protect your interests.