How Long Does an Eviction Stay on Your Record? Expert Answers

Evelyn Sanderson - September 1, 2024

Facing an eviction can be a stressful experience. 

Beyond the immediate impact, the lingering concern of how long it affects your ability to rent adds another layer of worry. It’s a common fear that can make the rental process feel like an uphill battle.

But don’t stress too much—understanding how long an eviction stays on your record can help you plan your next steps. 

In this blog, we’ll break down the eviction timeline and explain why it matters. Plus, we’ll share some practical tips to help you overcome this hurdle and secure your next rental with confidence.

Understanding Evictions: The Basics and the Consequences

Before diving into the specifics of eviction timelines, let’s establish a clear understanding of what eviction entails and the potential consequences it carries.

An eviction is a legal process where a court orders a tenant to vacate a rental property. This usually happens when the tenant violates the lease agreement. Common reasons for eviction include:

• Non-payment of rent: This is the most common reason. If you consistently miss rent payments, your landlord has the right to start eviction proceedings.
  
• Lease violations: This includes unauthorized pets, subletting without permission, or engaging in illegal activities on the property.
  
• Property damage: Significant damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear can lead to eviction.
  
• Nuisance complaints: Repeated complaints from neighbors about noise or disruptive behavior can also be grounds for eviction.

An eviction can have serious repercussions. It can stay on your rental history for several years, making it difficult to secure future housing. Landlords often check rental histories, and an eviction can be a red flag. Additionally, it can negatively impact your credit score, making it harder to get loans or other forms of credit.

Are Eviction Records Available Publicly?

Yes, eviction records are generally available to the public. When a landlord files an eviction case in court and obtains a judgment, this information becomes part of the public record. This means that anyone, including potential landlords and credit reporting agencies, can access these records.

It’s important to note that while eviction records are often public, they might not be readily available to everyone. Landlords, in most cases, use tenant screening services that have access to a wider range of information, including eviction records.

Evictions and Their Impact On Your Credit Report

When it comes to evictions and credit reports, there’s a bit of good news: an eviction itself doesn’t show up directly on your credit report. However, this doesn’t mean you’re entirely off the hook. 

The major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) don’t typically include eviction records on your credit report. The reason is straightforward—your credit report focuses on your financial debt and how you manage it (credit card payments, loan repayments, etc.).

Still, there are nuances. While the eviction itself won’t show up, the underlying reason for eviction could potentially impact your credit score. If the eviction stemmed from non-payment of rent, your landlord might send the unpaid debt to a collections agency. 

Once the debt is in collections, it gets reported to credit bureaus and appears on your credit report. This can significantly lower your credit score, as it reflects negatively on your ability to manage debt. The impact can vary depending on your credit history and the severity of the debt. 

How Long Do Evictions Stay On Your Record?

Now that we’ve established the basics of evictions and their impact on credit let’s address the crucial question: how long do evictions stay on your record?

Generally, an eviction shows up on your records for as much as seven years (that’s because collection accounts stay in your credit report for the same period). But there’s no single universal answer. The timeframe can vary depending on several factors, including:

State Laws

Each state has its own regulations regarding how long eviction records are retained in public court records. It typically falls within a range of 7 to 10 years from the judgment date. You can find specific information on your state’s laws by searching the website of your state’s court system or contacting a local legal aid organization.

Tenant Screening Reports

While eviction records might disappear from public view after a certain period, they can linger longer on tenant screening reports used by landlords. These reports compile data from various sources, including public records, and might hold onto eviction information for a longer duration.

Understanding the timeline of an eviction record is essential for planning your next steps. In the following sections, we’ll provide practical tips to help you mitigate the impact of an eviction and improve your chances of securing a new rental. 

Tips to Rent With an Eviction On Your Record

An eviction on your record can feel like a major roadblock in your search for a new home. However, it doesn’t have to be the end of the road. Here are some actionable tips to navigate the rental market even with an eviction history:

• Be honest and upfront: When talking to potential landlords, be transparent about your eviction. Explain the circumstances and what you’ve done to resolve the issue. Honesty can build trust and show that you’re taking responsibility.
  
• Provide references: Strong references from previous landlords, employers, or other credible sources can help offset the negative impact of an eviction. These references can vouch for your reliability and character.
  
• Offer a larger deposit (if possible): Offering a larger security deposit or several months’ rent upfront can reassure landlords of your commitment and financial stability.
  
• Seek out private landlords: Private landlords may be more flexible and willing to consider your situation compared to larger property management companies. They might be more open to personal explanations and negotiations.
  
• Get a co-signer: Having a co-signer with a good credit history can provide additional security for the landlord. This shows that someone else is willing to vouch for you financially.
  
• Rebuild your credit score: Work on improving your credit score by paying off debts, making timely payments, and reducing credit card balances. A better credit score can make you a more attractive tenant.
  
• Show income proof: Providing proof of stable and sufficient income can help convince landlords that you can afford the rent. Pay stubs, bank statements, or a letter from your employer can be useful.
  
• Check alternative places to stay: Look for short-term rentals or sublets as a temporary solution. This can give you time to rebuild your rental history and prove your reliability.

In addition to these, take control of your public records. Regularly check them using reputable platforms that offer solutions like people lookup and public record search. If you find any inaccuracies, especially those stemming from minor issues, take steps to address them. Ultimately, persistence and a proactive approach can make all the difference. 

Eviction Shouldn’t Define Your Future

Finding a new home might require extra effort with an eviction on your record, but it’s absolutely achievable. An eviction—like most things in life—is a temporary setback that doesn’t have to define your future.

You can improve your chances of finding a new rental despite having an eviction on your record by taking an optimistic approach, paired with strategic credit building. So, stay positive, take action, and unlock the door to your next dream home.