Another update on Eviction Moratoriums….

Another update on Eviction Moratoriums….

Our entire staff met (via Zoom) with our attorney, David McKennett, to come up to speed on the latest status of the Eviction Moratoriums.  This is one of the most important topics for Property Managers to keep on top of since it is constantly changing, requires strict adherence to legal processes, and can significantly impact landlord’s cash flow.

Here’s an overview of the current Eviction Moratoriums, laws, and restrictions at the Federal, State, and County levels….

  1. HHS/CDC TEMPORARY HALT IN RESIDENTIAL EVICTIONS TO PREVENT THE FURTHER SPREAD OF COVID-19 – This Federal Level “moratorium” remains in place through March 31, 2021 and stops the eviction process If a tenant provides a written declaration that they have been financially impacted by COVID. 
  2. VIRGINIA LAWS THAT IMPACT DOCUMENATION AND TIMELINES FOR EVICTION – Rather than issuing a 5-Day Notice when tenants are late with rent payments, landlords and property managers must now issue a 14-Day Notice.  This notice must also include notification of tenant rights and information regarding the “Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program”.  Furthermore, landlords must apply for the Rent Relief on behalf of the tenants if tenants have not applied.  Any landlord owning more than 4 properties must offer a payment plan spread over 6 months.
  3. PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY COURT PROCEDURES – When we were in court recently, the PW County Judge informed us that all eviction cases for non-payment of rent were being continued (rescheduled) for after March 31st.

On a positive note, we are still seeing less than 2% of tenants having difficulty paying rent.  Most of those that have applied for the Rent Relief Program have received funds for several months of back rent.  

We will continue to provide updates as to whether these restrictions get extended or if any other changes to the eviction process are implemented.

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