So You Wanna Know: How Long Does it Take to Get Evicted in Philly? (Don't Panic, But Grab a Coffee)
Let's face it, eviction isn't exactly a walk in the park (unless it's a metaphorical park where all the fun things are illegal, and trust me, that's not the kind of park you want to be in). If you're a landlord and your tenant's decided rent payments are about as likely as a penguin population boom in the Sahara, you're probably wondering how long it'll take to get them out. Buckle up, because the answer is... it depends.
The Eviction Expedition: A Rough Roadmap
Here's a whistle-stop tour of the eviction process, Philly style:
- Notice to Vacate: First things first, you gotta let your tenant know they've overstayed their welcome. This notice period can be 30 days for short leases (less than a year) or a whopping 90 days for year-long leases or longer.
- Court Date (cue dramatic music): After the notice period is up, it's time to file a formal complaint with the court. This snazzy piece of paper will land you a court date, usually within 10 business days.
- The Hearing: Here's your chance to plead your case (although hopefully it won't involve medieval torture devices). The judge will make a decision, and within 5 business days, you'll know if you've been victorious.
- Order of Possession: If the judge rules in your favor, you'll get an Order of Possession. This fancy document basically tells the tenant, "Yup, you gotta go, and you have 15 days to do it."
- Eviction Day: But wait, there's more! Even after the 15 days are up, you can't exactly throw the tenant's belongings out on the street yourself (trust us, that's a recipe for disaster). You'll need to get the sheriff involved, and that can take another 11 days.
QuickTip: Absorb ideas one at a time.
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| How Long Is The Eviction Process In Philadelphia |
So, How Long Does it REALLY Take?
Add it all up, and you're looking at an eviction process that could take anywhere from 2-4 months, depending on how cooperative your tenant is (and how backed up the court system is).
Important Note: This is just a general guideline. If your tenant decides to fight tooth and nail (or, you know, claw), it could take much longer.
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Pro Tip: Don't Be a Scrooge McDuck with a Heart of Stone
Philadelphia has an Eviction Diversion Program. This program is basically a chance for you and your tenant to work things out before lawyers and courtrooms get involved. It's a win-win: you might get your rent paid, and your tenant might avoid the whole eviction mess.
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QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
Eviction FAQ - The Cliff Notes Version
How to know how long my eviction will take? There's no magic answer, but it can take anywhere from 2-4 months.
How to speed up the eviction process? A cooperative tenant can help things move along smoothly.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
How to avoid eviction altogether? The Eviction Diversion Program might be your saving grace (and save you some serious time and money).
How to find out more about the Eviction Diversion Program? Philly Tenant has all the info you need:
How to make this whole eviction thing less stressful? Grab a good book, a strong cup of coffee, and maybe a friend who can commiserate. Eviction isn't fun, but a little humor (and caffeine) can go a long way.
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