A tenant who does not pay the rent or refuses to vacate the property may cause significant losses to the owner. In these situations, it may be tempting to change the locks, disconnect utilities or forcibly remove the tenant from the property. However, these solutions can create additional legal problems.

Eviction of the tenant must be done legally through a proper procedure. A well-prepared approach can reduce the time lost, the risk of mistakes and the chances of the file being blocked by the tenant's defenses.

When can the tenant be evicted?

Eviction may be necessary when a tenant occupies a property without a legal basis, for example after the contract expires, the lease is terminated, or the tenant refuses to leave despite no longer having a contractual right to remain.

The situation needs to be analysed in concrete terms: what the contract provides for, if the tenant has been notified, if there are arrears and if the building is still occupied without a right.

What not to do as owner

Even if the situation is frustrating, the owner should avoid "on his own" actions without legal verification:

• change of locks without legal procedure;

• removal of the tenant's property from the home;

• stopping utilities to force him to leave;

• direct threats or pressures;

• entry into the building without a clear basis.

Such an approach can transform a civil dispute into a much more complicated situation.

What are the legal steps for eviction?

Where appropriate, steps may include:

• the analysis of the lease contract;

• the calculation of the outstanding rent and any penalties;

• the submission of a notification to the tenant;

• the preparation of the eviction request;

• Submission of the file to the competent court;

• the enforcement of the judgment if the tenant does not leave voluntarily.

Can you recover the outstanding rent?

Yes, depending on the situation, the owner may pursue not only the eviction but also the recovery of the outstanding rent, unpaid utilities, penalties or damage to the building.

These sums must be documented through the contract, bank statements, messages, invoices, photographs, the handover record and any other useful evidence.

Why is it worth working with a lawyer?

A lawyer can check whether the notice is properly drafted, the chosen procedure is appropriate and procedural defects could lead to dismissal of the case. In disputes with tenants, the documents and preliminary steps are particularly important.

Do you have a tenant who doesn't pay?

If you have a tenant who doesn't pay, refuses to leave or occupies the building without a right, you can request a legal analysis. We are checking the contract, notifications and the right solution for eviction and recovery of the amounts due.

Frequently asked questions

Can I change the lock if the tenant doesn't pay?

It is not recommended to act without a legal procedure. Changing the lock can create legal risks for the owner.

Can I ask for eviction if the contract's expired?

Yes, if the person continues to occupy the building without right, an eviction procedure can be examined.

Can I recover the remaining rent with the eviction?

Depending on the situation, outstanding amounts, utilities, penalties or compensation may also be required.

How long does it take to evict a tenant?

The duration depends on the court, documents, defenses of the tenant and the enforcement stage. A well-prepared file can avoid unnecessary delays.