Property Management Blog

One of the most common questions we get from landlords thinking about or are already in the process of renting their homes is how to handle a situation when the tenant stops paying rent. In other words, how to evict a tenant in Northern Virginia. Luckily for Flat Fee Landlord, we don’t have to do too many evictions because of our 1% eviction rate on placed tenants. However, there are unfortunately times we have to evict tenants for landlords that either had someone else place their tenant or they tried doing it themselves. Fear not, the eviction process isn’t as daunting as you may think. In fact, if you have a legal and written lease, you should be in good shape. Here are the steps to evicting a tenant in Northern Virginia.

1. Rent is considered Late after the 5th day of the month. You will send a 5 Day Pay or Quit notice on the 6th day of the month via certified mail or through the Sheriff’s office.
2. Once 5 days have passed since your tenant has received the 5 Day Pay or Quit Notice and has neither paid outstanding rent or moved out, you will file a Summons for an Unlawful Detainer at your local Courthouse.
3. Show up to court on the date. Remember to bring a copy of the lease; as well as, a copy of the 5 Day Pay or Quit Notice (and proof of delivery) you sent to your tenant.
4. Receive judgement and a Writ of Possession.
5. Coordinate a time and date to meet the Sheriff and a locksmith at the property. The Sheriff will assist with the transfer of property back into your possession and the locksmith will change the locks.

Congrats! If you have followed these steps and have a legal and written lease, you should have your property back in your possession. Additionally, the whole process may take up to 3-6 weeks depending on everyone’s schedules. It may take even longer should the tenant dispute the eviction during the court hearing.

Call Flat Fee Landlord DC Metro at (703)261-9414 or visit our website at www.FlatFeeLandlord.com for help with the evicting a tenant in Northern Virginia or property management and leasing of your home!