Q: How can I terminate a lease and evict a Section 8 tenant?
A: An owner can terminate a lease with a Section 8 tenant for the following:

• Serious or repeated violation of the lease

• Violation of Federal, State or local law that imposes obligations on the tenant in connection with the occupancy or use of the premises

• Criminal activity or alcohol abuse, or

• Other good cause

Q: What is considered "criminal activity"?
A: An owner may evict a tenant for any of the following types of criminal activity by the tenant. other members of the household, or tenant's guests.

• Criminal activity that threatens the health, safety, or right to peaceful enjoyment of other residents
• Any drug-related criminal activity on or near the premises
• Any violent criminal activity on or near the premises

Q: What is "other good cause"?
A: During the initial term of the lease, an owner can evict the tenant for good cause such as history of disturbing neighbors, destroying property, or damaging a unit or property.
Other good cause after the first year of the lease includes:

• Business or economic reason for regaining possession of the unit
• Owner's desire to repossess the unit for personal use
• Tenant's refusal to accept an offer of a new lease

Q: How do I evict a tenant?
A: An owner may evict a tenant only by a court action in accordance with state and local law.  It is recommended that you consult with an attorney if you are not familiar with the eviction process.

The owner must provide the tenant with a written notice specifying the grounds for termination of tenancy, at or before the beginning of the eviction action.  The notice may be included in, or may be combined with any owner eviction notice tot he tenant. The owner must also provide the Housing Authority with a copy of the eviction notice and all other legal documents served on the tenant. You must also notify the Authority case manager immediately of the Sheriff's lockout date or the date the tenant vacates.

Q: Does the Housing Authority help me with the eviction?
A: No.  The Housing Authority does not assist owners with evictions. Remember the lease agreement is between the owner and the tenant.  

Q: Will I continue to receive my Housing Assistance Payments through the eviction process?
A: Yes, as long as the Authority has not already terminated the family from the program and you are in compliance with the Housing Assistance Payment Contract. Housing Assistance Payments will continue through the date of the Sheriff's lockout or the date the family vacates the unit, whichever comes first.