Eviction during Covid

[Cody Godfrey]

Hi all!

I posted in another forum but wanted to double up to ensure I can get some feedback. I recently purchased a duplex in PA. We decided to give a 30 day notice to one of the residents as we’d like to renovate the unit to increase our cash flow.

Also, we learned that this tenant tore a huge deck out that was installed last year behind his unit and sold the lumber for money. We gave him a violation notice asking that it was replaced. Obviously it wasn’t so we filed for eviction. This happened on the old owners watch though.. we are still moving forward with our court hearing and hoping it works out. We also gave another violation notice for some debris in his back yard. He has signed the cdc affidavit and is not currently paying. I am requesting no money but rather just want him out of my house.

Any input/experience/opinions on if we have a decent chance in court would be greatly appreciated!

On the other hand, if he isn’t out by the end of his 30 day notice period, can we take him to court for this and be successful?

[Caroline Gerardo]

No - he will delay the hearing over and over with crying. You need police report, a paid bill from prior owner, prior owner needs to show up to testify, him admitting he tore it out to sell.  Court system sees you as nice (rich) young man in a grey suit and tie vs him in work boots, short sleeves and four children in the audience.  It will be a year to get to a hearing. Whoever told you to close on this deal needs a talk.   Make a deal that is less than the 1 year cost to carry and whatever other drama this person dreams up with time on his hands think Pacific Heights