🏠 Eviction Notice Laws by State
The most comprehensive free guide to eviction notice requirements for landlords. Compare notice periods, court procedures, and timelines across all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.
Last reviewed: January
🔍 Prevent Evictions Before They Start
The average eviction costs landlords $3,500+ in legal fees, lost rent, and property damage. Screen applicants thoroughly before they become problem tenants.
Select Your State
Click any state for detailed eviction laws and procedures
⚠️ Red Flags That Predict Problem Tenants
Tenants with prior evictions are 8x more likely to be evicted again. Screen every applicant thoroughly.
Quick State Comparison
Compare notice periods and eviction speeds
Non-Payment Notice: Minimum days after serving notice before filing eviction. “Immediate” = can file as soon as rent is late.
| State | Notice | M-to-M | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🤠 Texas | 3 Days | 30 Days | V.Fast |
| 🍑 Georgia | Immed | 60 Days | V.Fast |
| 🌴 Florida | 3 Days | 15 Days | Fast |
| 🌵 Arizona | 5 Days | 30 Days | Fast |
| 🏔️ Colorado | 10 Days | 21 Days | Med |
| 🌴 California | 3 Days | 30-60d | Slow |
| 🗽 New York | 14 Days | 30-90d | V.Slow |
Key Legal Terms
Important concepts every landlord should know
📜 Notice to Quit vs. Cure
Notice to Quit demands tenant vacate unconditionally. Notice to Cure gives opportunity to fix the violation first.
📋 Writ of Possession
Court order authorizing sheriff to physically remove tenant. Required after winning eviction judgment.
🚫 Self-Help Eviction
Illegal in all 50 states. Cannot change locks, remove belongings, or shut off utilities without court order.
🔒 Retaliatory Eviction
Most states prohibit evicting tenants for reporting code violations or exercising legal rights.
✅ It’s a No-Brainer: Screen Every Tenant
For less than one day’s rent, uncover previous evictions, court judgments, and credit problems—factors that substantially increase your risk.
True Cost of Eviction
Why prevention is always cheaper
💸 Average Eviction Costs
The average eviction costs landlords $3,500 – $10,000 including:
- Court Filing: $50 – $500
- Attorney Fees: $500 – $5,000+
- Lost Rent: 2-6 months ($2,000 – $12,000+)
- Property Damage: $1,000 – $5,000
- Turnover Costs: $1,000 – $3,000
Screening cost: $30-$50 per applicant
Eviction cost: $3,500-$10,000
Screen every applicant, every time—no exceptions.
Related Resources
More tools to protect your investment
FAQ
🏠 Protect Your Investment Today
Every day renting to an unscreened tenant is gambling with thousands of dollars. Know exactly who you’re renting to.
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about eviction laws and is updated regularly. Laws change frequently and local ordinances may impose additional requirements. This is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney before initiating eviction proceedings.
