Train: Eviction - How to Handle Neighboring Residents During an Eviction

Eviction is never a desired outcome for a Property Owner or for a Resident. Handling it can be stressful and costly. See other Sections on How to Avoid an Eviction. This section is on how to deal with residents in the same building or neighborhood as the unit experiencing an eviction. At the core, an eviction is a break down in personal responsiblity of the resident. Also, the communication with the owner or property manager has also become strained or nonexistent with the resident. That broken communication often spreads and causes problems with neighbors and even law enforcement. Here are few tips to deal with an eviction already in process.

1) Don’t tell neighbors too much. Only tell as little as possible. Resident who are being evicted can accuse you of slander and that gets ugly. Be professional and vague if directly asked by other residents.

2) Do make sure that you always comply with Fair House Laws as other residents may “tattle” if you in any way violate Fair Housing. Sadly, many are trained to try and entrap property managers or owners into a violation.

3) Communicate clearly and in writing. Avoid getting stopped in person or talking directly to a resident. If a resident calls, feel free to text in response so that you have date and time-stamped response.

Here is an example:

Good Morning, I wanted to let you know that next door there was an eviction yesterday. In an effort to continue to improve the neighborhood and working with law enforcement, this sadly was necessary. Please know that we are committed to making sure the neighborhood is safe and clean. The debris will be removed by the Sanitation Department tomorrow. Please avoid the area completely for your health and safety until the municipal officials can clear it out. Thanks!