As the COVID-19 pandemic raged on, countless Californians lost their jobs. Making ends meet presented challenges. Over time, making their monthly rent became impossible. Fortunately, the state stepped up and placed a moratorium on evictions. Officials promised financial relief to landlords provided that they didn’t move forward with removals while giving tenants throughout the state the best gift they could.
Time.
However, for many, time is running or has run out. The U.S. Census Bureau released a pulse survey that reveals millions of renters remain concerned that they will be removed from their respective homes in the next few months.
State eviction prohibitions at an end
Prohibiting removals by landlords ended on September 30, putting California renters in a state of uncertainty when it comes to keeping roofs over their respective heads. They also face lawsuits by property owners to pay back past-due rent.
However, some residents have a bit of a reprieve thanks to county rules allowing them to stay in their homes.
Alameda is one such county where renters remain protected, provided that no threats to health or safety exist or landlords are looking to sell their properties. However, the conditional prohibitions have not stopped landlords from harassing them with multiple eviction notices and demands to leave the premises.
Renters are living in fear, with some having their belongings packed and ready to go if their nightmare becomes reality. Others have taken the drastic step to set up barricades made of furniture and other large items to block access from property owners looking to evict them.
Attorneys representing tenants claim that either landlords are unaware of the ban or are willingly ignoring it.
An eviction notice is a first step, not the final decision. Immediately moving out is not required, nor is it recommended, regardless of what property owners may claim. Both landlords and tenants must go through court proceedings before the removal is approved or denied.
