What is often the first step in the eviction process?

The first step in the eviction process is typically issuing a notice to vacate. This notice serves as a formal communication to the tenant, informing them that they must leave the property by a certain date. The notice outlines the reason for the eviction, which commonly includes failure to pay rent or violation of lease terms.

This step establishes a legal basis for the eviction, providing the tenant with an opportunity to address the issue, whether that means making overdue rent payments or rectifying lease violations, before the landlord proceeds to more formal legal actions such as filing a complaint with the court.

Starting with a notice to vacate helps to facilitate a clear dialogue and comply with legal requirements, ensuring that the landlord has taken appropriate steps to address the situation before escalating to court proceedings.