Most tenants who are facing eviction are being evicted as a consequence of nonpayment of rent. We've all been in a financial crunch at one time and no person ever plans to be evicted from their home. Unfortunately, evictions do occur.

Here are a few simple reminders:

• Rent is due the by the 10th of the month every month. If you cannot pay your rent by the due date because of some unexpected event, inform the leasing office as soon as possible. For Market Rate renters the rent is due by the 5th of each month.
• If, for some reason, rent is not paid by the 21st of the month, the property manager will notify you that the rent must be paid by the 24th.
• If the rent is still not paid by the 24th the eviction process begins. This includes having warrants charged ($111.75 for an individual or $137.75 if co-lessee) against you.
• A court date is set and an attorney goes to court. A $50 attorney fee is charged and eviction continues to move forward. But there is still time to correct the matter.
• Ten days after court if the rent is still not paid an Order to Evict is issued ($65) and the Sheriff delivers the eviction notice. Crews remove furniture and other belongings from the home and the eviction process is complete.

Avoid the eviction process by taking these easy steps each month:

1. Always pay your rent, retro rent and maintenance fees on time.
   Tip: Circle the rent due date on a calendar and place it in a place where you will see it daily in your apartment
2. Avoid late charges, warrants and writs.
3. Report appropriate changes, avoid retro rent.

Others may face eviction for a variety of reasons, including violation of lease terms, creation of a health or safety hazard, etc. The most important part of the rental process is to fully understand the terms of your lease and know what is allowed and what is not allowed at your property. If you have questions about what is or is not allowed at your property, you should contact the property management office and ask to speak to the manager.

Remember, communication is the most important step. If you have questions or need assistance, contact the property manager and ask for guidance on your situation.