I am a small landlord and a tenant is not paying or will not leave

More real estate and housing situations

• My landlord changed the locks or shut off utilities A landlord generally cannot use self-help to evict a residential tenant. Seek prompt emergency housing/legal assistance.
• My rent is increasing sharply Check lease timing, required notice, regulation, and any applicable local protection before assuming the increase is valid.
• Closing costs or loan terms changed Compare the final disclosures with earlier estimates and ask for explanations before closing.
• I think housing discrimination or retaliation is happening Federal, state, and local protections differ; preserve facts and check the proper complaint route and deadline.
• My lease expired or the landlord will not renew Lease expiration does not answer every right to remain or every notice requirement.
• I applied for a mortgage modification but keep getting notices Keep a complete application record and check whether any legal or sale deadline remains active.
• I received eviction papers Identify whether you have a preliminary notice, filed court case, judgment, or enforcement notice.
• My security deposit was not returned Compare the local rules with the tenancy dates and itemized claims; ordinary wear and actual tenant damage differ.

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