Housing associations offer fantastic communities and beautiful surroundings.
But what happens when something goes wrong, and you need to evict a tenant? You risk that environment becoming a string of stressful phone calls, emails to lawyers, and tenant complaints.
Don't get caught in an eviction emergency. Read on to learn the three most important rules when managing HOA evictions in Suwanee, Georgia.
1. You Must Work Within Tenancy Laws
Before you can begin evicting someone from an HOA, you need to familiarize yourself with tenancy laws.
These are laws protecting the rights of tenants from unfair evictions. In Suwanee, you'll need to review the current state laws of Georgia.
In Georgia, HOAs have the power to enforce their community rules, which means they can evict a tenant. But you can only start an eviction if you have a specific reason.
That reason could include property damage, non-payment of fees, or breaking particular rules in the HOA and tenancy agreement.
The legal framework also sets out how you start an eviction. For example, you need to give the tenant adequate notice. In Georgia, that's typically 60 days.
2. You Should Understand the Process for HOA Evictions in Suwanee
When you evict someone, the steps will follow a standard process.
The first step is to notify the tenant of your intention to evict. This notification must always be in a written format. And it should cover the reason for the eviction, such as a failure to pay HOA fees.
After that comes the grace period, a chance for the tenant to remedy the problem and avoid eviction. For example, they have the opportunity to pay all owed monies. They also have the chance to present their case to the HOA board.
After the notice period is over, the tenant should leave the property.
If they don't, you'll have to begin the next step. That's to take the matter to the courts. When that happens, the HOA must present its argument and evidence to the courts.
3. Know Some Best Practices to Avoid Evictions
Transparent and fair rules for your HOA are a good starting point to avoid evictions. It makes it easier for tenants to understand their responsibilities. It helps prevent things from getting to the eviction stage.
Always keep a written record of problems with tenants. This evidence may help you if an issue goes to court. Photographs are also valuable if you are dealing with property damage.
You should also consider hiring HOA management services to oversee your HOA responsibilities.
HOA managers can ensure the smooth running of your HOA, keeping tenants happy and managing the admin and fee collection. Having a dedicated person will allow you to spot potential problems early.
HOA Evictions: Protecting Your Properties
HOA evictions may be a last resort, but it's still vital that you plan for them. These three tips will help protect landlords and HOA bodies from future problems.
PMI Reliance has trusted property management experts who can handle all your HOA responsibilities. To find out more about how we can help you, head here.
