Coming home to an eviction notice on the front door is any renter’s worst nightmare. If this happens to you, don’t start packing your boxes immediately. There is legislation in place to protect both landlords and tenants—and the law may be on your side.

Facing Eviction? Here’s What to Do

1. Determine the Type of Notice

There are three general types of evictions. A “pay rent or quit” notice occurs if you have defaulted on rent. It demands that you pay up or move out. A “cure or quit” notice happens if you have violated a condition of the lease—like having a dog in a no-pet building. An “unconditional quit” orders you to vacate the premises with no remedial option. This might occur if you have repeatedly violated clauses, caused serious property damage, or missed rent more than once.

2. Check Your Lease Agreement

If you are served with an eviction notice because you have supposedly violated a term of the lease, double check the document. Further, if the landlord is not evicting you but simply terminating the lease without cause—which is often permitted—double check the notice period required by the lease. This generally ranges from 30 to 60 days.

3. Consult a Lawyer

Landlord-tenant laws are complicated and vary from one state to the next. Talk to a local legal professional to find out if your renters’ rights are being violated in any way. You can also ask whether it’s worth contesting the eviction: Say, for instance, you didn’t pay rent because the landlord failed to make necessary renovations to the apartment—like fixing a leaking ceiling. With sufficient evidence, this could make for a strong rebuttal. 

For reliable counsel regarding an eviction notice in Middletown, NY, trust Cheryl A Beverson, Attorney At Law. With more than 20 years of legal experience, this attorney is a longstanding member of the New York State Bar Association. Among her peers and clients, she is known for providing practical advice and solutions. You can reach her offices online or by calling (845) 341-0008.