Even if I’m not paying rent at a residence but I’ve lived here for almost a year now, do I have the right to get a notice to to be evicted ?
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Even if I’m not paying rent at a residence but I’ve lived here for almost a year now, do I have the right to get a notice to to be evicted ?
I have been living with a friend and he just recently signed his house over to his mom. Now she is trying to kick me out with no notice because I’m not paying rent howeverI receive mail here. Shouldn’t I at least get a 30 day notice or something? She’s telling me that I’m considered a guest and I will be arrested for trespassing if I’m not out immediately.
Asked on April 6, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Washington
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Yes, you most probably have a right to receive notice. If someone is invited onto a property to live, they become what is known as a "licensee". If their invitation to stay on the premises is later revoked, the lawful way to remove the licensee is to serve them with a notice to quit (typically 30 days). If they still don't leave, then the property owner must file an unlawful detainer action (i.e. eviction) in court. This can take 2 - 4 weeks. After that, if the licensee has not vacated by that time, the sheriff will remove them in about a week or so (and by physical force if necessary). If the owner attempts some form of "self-help" such as changing the locks or removing the licensee's belongings, they can be subject to a suit for unlawful eviction.
The above holds true for the majority of states. To find out the exact law in your jurisdiction, consult with an attorney that specializes in landlord-tenant law or contact a tenant's rights organization.
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