Philadelphia Courts Closed through end of May

[Kevin M.]

First Judicial District just announced they are not processing evictions until June.

https://www.inquirer.com/healt...

Knowing Philadelphia, once June rolls around it will take months to process all the new filings.

It puts property owners in a terrible situation since the government has the power to limit private evictions (no changing locks or constructive evictions) with the threat of civil and criminal penalty, yet they can close the only legal route to reclaim use of Private property rightfully owned and due to the owner. 

What are other owners and managers doing at this time? It seems the only legal recourse is to remind tenants they will be contractually obligated for all missed rent and fees, but are you even confident they will be? Trust in the legal system seems to be shaken...

[Adam Garner]

I think it will be extremely tough for landlords to recoup any losses from unpaid rents. The system in Philly favors tenants as it is - this combined with the pandemic creates a nightmare for landlords. Hopefully, there aren't a ton of tenants that take advantage of the situation. 

I think the best course of action is getting in touch with the tenants in order to understand their situation and then working with them on a case by case basis. Some people have reduced hours and might not be able to pay the full amount on the first of the month but will get it to you before the 15th. Others could be waiting on the stimulus check, unemployment, or their tax return. Open communication will be beneficial for both parties.