Owning a rental property in Florida can be a lucrative investment, but it also comes with difficulties. One of the most challenging situations owners face is handling tenant evictions. No one wants to evict a tenant, but it’s sometimes necessary to protect the property and maintain profitability. When these uncomfortable situations arise, a professional property management company, like Douglas Realty Property Management, can help streamline the eviction process and ensure it is handled quickly, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant laws.
Understanding Florida Eviction Laws
Florida has strict laws governing the eviction process, and they must be followed precisely to avoid costly delays that stop the owner from being able to bring in a new tenant. From providing proper notices to filing court paperwork, each step must be completed correctly and by a set deadline. Property management companies are a great resource during tenant evictions because they have in-depth knowledge of the laws pertaining to evictions, keeping the process moving forward as smoothly as possible.
Handling Notices
The first step in any eviction is serving the proper notice to the tenant. In Florida, owners may issue a 3-day notice to pay or vacate for unpaid rent, a 7-day notice to cure for lease violations or a 7-day unconditional quit notice for severe lease breaches. Prudent property managers will draft and deliver these notices, following all applicable rules, and providing clear and professional communication to the tenant.
Keeping Proper Documentation
Additionally, property managers maintain detailed records of lease agreements, tenant correspondence, payment histories, inspection reports, maintenance records, and more. This documentation is critical if the eviction is disputed by the tenant in court. Having accurate, organized paperwork can be the difference between regaining possession of the property or having to restart the eviction process.
Dealing With Court Filings & Proceedings
From the initial notices to filing the eviction lawsuit, property management companies handle the paperwork and filing process on behalf of the owner. If you’ve ever had to deal with this process on your own, you know how much time and stress it can cause. If the eviction ends up being heard in court, the property manager will work alongside legal professionals to represent the owner’s best interests and regain possession of the property.
Coordinating Tenant Move-Outs & Property Recovery
Once the eviction is approved, the property management company will ensure the property is vacated safely and without damage, in collaboration with local authorities. After the property is vacant, they will quickly arrange to have a thorough inspection of the property conducted, document its condition, and take care of any necessary repairs or cleaning to prepare it for the next tenant.
Minimizing Financial Losses
An eviction is always a costly situation. It can result in months or even years of lost rental income. Furthermore, tenants who are being evicted tend to be more destructive in a property before being forced to leave. Property management companies provide information quickly to help the eviction process move as quickly as possible, minimizing vacancy and financial losses. This proactive approach protects owners’ investments and keeps cash flow steady.
Why Work with Douglas Realty Property Management?
Navigating an eviction is a time-consuming and stressful process for property owners. By working with an experienced property management company like Douglas, owners can rest assured that evictions will be handled professionally, efficiently, and in full compliance with all federal and state laws. We will manage the eviction process and implement tenant screening protocols to reduce the likelihood of future evictions once the property is reoccupied. If you own rental property in Ft. Myers, North Port, San Carlos, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Lehigh Acres, or Cape Coral, let Douglas handle all your property management needs. Contact us today at 239-542-6906 or send us a message online to learn more about our property management services.
