Evictions & the COVID-19 Pandemic

With the introduction of Covid-19 the world around us has changed big time. No matter who you are, it can be assumed Covid-19 has changed your life in some way. One of the biggest concerns and changes we have seen during the pandemic is the situation with housing in America. At the onset of Covid-19 many landlords and tenants wondered what was going to happen when it came to paying rent. Illinois has made it very difficult for landlords to evict the tenants. In short, the purpose of this article is to make landlords aware of evictions.

I am a Landlord, What Should I do?

Being a landlord, you are most likely aware of how hard it is to evict someone right now. If you feel hopeless, we have good news. It is possible to get an eviction right now, but it is a complicated process. In order to get a legal eviction, you will be required to serve the appropriate tenant a form declaration. This form is made available to you by the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

What if my Tenant is Threatening Another Tenant?

In the event that one of your tenants threatens another you may be able to evict that person. This type of occurrence is not protected under the executive order 2020-72 signed by Governor Pritzker. At an eviction proceeding, you will have to prove the danger by bringing evidence.

What if my Tenant is Destroying the Property?

In addition to above, if your tenant is responsible for the destruction of your property you may be able to evict the tenant. If the tenant involved poses a threat and has not committed the act yet, you may still be able to evict them. Lastly, if you consider the tenant a threat to your other tenants and their property, you may have them evicted.

What if my Tenant Owes Rent? Can I Evict?

In this instance there are a few important factors to consider. Firstly, landlords should know that they do have the right to evict a person that owes rent. Secondly, and probably most important, you must supply the tenant with the form declaration. After successfully doing so, you must also give that tenant a 5-day notice.