What Is the Process for Evicting a Tenant Through Property Management Services?

Evicting a tenant is never a pleasant task, but it’s sometimes necessary to protect a rental property and ensure rent payments are made. Property management companies in Orange County, CA handle the eviction process for landlords, making it smoother and ensuring all legal requirements are met. Let's take a look at how property management in Orange County approaches tenant evictions while minimizing stress for property owners.

Legal Grounds for Eviction

The first step in evicting a tenant is ensuring there are legal grounds for the eviction. In California, a landlord must have a valid reason to ask a tenant to leave. Some of the most common reasons include failure to pay rent, lease violations, or engaging in illegal activities on the property.

Property management services will carefully review the lease and tenant behavior to determine if legal grounds exist. They ensure that landlords are protected by following California’s strict eviction laws. 

Sending a Notice to Vacate

Once legal grounds are confirmed, the next step is sending the tenant a notice to vacate. Property management companies in Orange County, CA will draft and deliver this notice, which explains why the tenant must leave and how much time they have to comply. In California, this notice can range from three days to 60 days, depending on the reason for eviction.

For example, if the tenant has failed to pay rent, they typically receive a three-day notice to pay rent or vacate. If they do not meet the deadline, the property manager can move forward with the eviction process. By handling the notice professionally and legally, property management in Orange County, CA helps ensure the process remains on track.

Filing an Eviction Lawsuit

If the tenant refuses to leave or correct the issue, property management in Orange County will file an eviction lawsuit on the landlord’s behalf. This is known as an “unlawful detainer” lawsuit. The property manager works with legal professionals to file all necessary paperwork with the court and represents the landlord throughout the case.

The court will then schedule a hearing where both the landlord and tenant can present their arguments. Property managers make sure all evidence, such as payment records or lease violations, is properly documented. 

Going to Court

In some cases, tenants will contest the eviction, and a court hearing becomes necessary. Property management companies in Orange County, CA will attend the hearing on the landlord’s behalf. Their goal is to present clear evidence that shows why the eviction is justified.

Once the court makes a decision, if the ruling is in favor of the landlord, the tenant will be ordered to vacate the property. If the tenant does not comply, the property manager can request the help of law enforcement to remove them from the premises. Having a professional property management team ensures landlords don’t have to navigate the complexities of court proceedings on their own.

Removing the Tenant and Recovering Costs

If the court orders the eviction, property management in Orange County, CA will work with local law enforcement to remove the tenant if necessary. The property manager also handles changing locks, securing the property, and addressing any damage the tenant may have caused. In some cases, the property manager can help the landlord recover unpaid rent or repair costs through the court.

Once the tenant is removed, the property is prepared for new renters. Property management companies in Orange County, CA ensure a smooth transition by marketing the property, screening potential tenants, and filling the vacancy quickly.

Let Property Managers Handle the Eviction Process for You

Evicting a tenant can be overwhelming and legally complex. From sending notices to representing landlords in court, property managers take care of everything, allowing landlords to focus on other aspects of their investments. If you need help managing tenant evictions, contact property management in Orange County today to protect your property and your peace of mind.