If you aren’t aware of the landlord-tenant issues in light of the eviction moratorium are, then here’s what you need to know! First things first, if you are unaware of what an eviction moratorium is, we’ll clear that up. An eviction moratorium is a temporary prohibition of evicting tenants. In this case, the CDC made it illegal for landlords to evict, or kick out, tenants who can not pay their rent.
That, of course, is the situation in its most simplistic form. This order was first enacted back in September of 2020 and was only supposed to last until the end of December 2020. However, quite recently, the moratorium was extended to last until June 30th, 2021.
What To Know
If you are in a situation where you need to seek the moratorium’s assistance, there are some things you need to be aware of first. You have to qualify for this new order just as you had to for the last one. This new order will protect tenants who:
- Made an effort to obtain government aid for housing
- Are unable to pay their rent due to a loss of income
- Are making an effort to pay what they can
- Would become homeless if evicted
There are also a few financial qualifications you have to meet to obtain this type of protection. However, even if you do meet them and are granted the moratorium order, this is not a final solution!
What To Watch Out For
Getting the moratorium means that your landlord can not evict you while the order is in effect. Once that order lets up, you can still be evicted, even if you manage to pay all the back-rent. In fact, there are a few different things you should watch out for because your landlord can still take other avenues against you.
Such as suing you for rent in place of evicting you. There is no order against suing people for rent, and this could be a possibility. If this happens, your landlord could take wage garnishments out on you for any future work you do.
Another thing they could do is get really nitpicky with the terms of your lease and find a way you’re violating it. If they find a way that you’re violating your lease that has nothing to do with nonpayment, you can be evicted. The moratorium order only protects you from eviction due to nonpayment.
Always Be Aware!
You should always be up-to-date on the different orders that are in effect. This way, you will know if you can benefit from the aid given to get you back on your feet. If you have any questions about your rights as a tenant, give us a call. Or visit our office location in Katy, Texas today!