How do I Evict a Roommate That Is Not Paying Rent?

Send your roommate packing.

Chances are that no matter how perfect the match seems to be, you've encountered problems with your roommate. Evicting a roommate is tough, especially if he's your friend, but sometimes he simply has to go.

Examine Your Lease

Read your lease and determine what the exact agreement is. If you're subleasing, you do have the right to evict. If you are a co-tenant, you both have equal rights to be in the home. Either way, if you are not the owner of the home you need to contact the landlord and inform him of the situation.

Tenant Laws

Check your local county and state tenant laws. Laws vary so find out exactly what you are able to do.For example, if you live in Missouri you are unable to evict without filing a claim and having a court order. But in Ohio, you can give a 3 day notice including reason for eviction and date to move out.

Record Keeping

Follow the required legal steps and keep track of all documents. This may include filed complaints, court documents, proof of ownership, or a copy of the served eviction notice. If you have done everything in your power under the law and the tenant is still squatting, it's time to call the local law enforcement. Having a paper trail of your actions will make it a quick case.

References

• blogs.findlaw.com: Can you evict a roommate legally?
• scholarships.com: Evicting a roommate.
• rentlaw.com: eviction laws by state