Why Evictions Are Rising, and the Most Common Reasons Landlords File

The number of eviction filings across the U.S. has surged back to, or above, pre-pandemic levels. In 2024, landlords filed just over 1 million cases, down slightly from 2023, but still accounting for about 7.3% of renter households. Excluding New York City, filings were actually 3% above historic norms.

In many cities, such as Phoenix (14.3%), San Antonio, and Houston, rates exceed 10 eviction filings per 100 renter households, with filings rising sharply as pandemic-era protections expire.

What's Driving the Rise in Evictions

1. Non‑payment of Rent

This remains by far the most common reason landlords file eviction notices, accounting for over 90% of cases in many areas.
Why it matters: As rents grow faster than wages, many renters are cost‑burdened, often spending over 30–50% of their income on housing. Unexpected costs, such as job loss or medical bills, push more people behind on rent.

2. Housing Affordability and Rising Rents

Cities like Phoenix and San Antonio face record filings as affordability collapses and rental rates spike post-pandemic.
What it means: Renters living paycheck to paycheck are increasingly unable to keep pace. Landlords often pursue eviction after a few missed payments, even if tenants indicate a willingness to make up the missed payments.

3. Lease Violations and No‑Fault Evictions

Other grounds include unauthorized pets, subletting, property damage, or violations of the law. Some landlords issue evictions even without tenant fault, sometimes to raise rents or prepare for sale, even if the tenant is current on their payments.
Why landlords file: These violations provide legal grounds; no-fault evictions are allowed in many U.S. areas and often offer landlords a simpler exit from problematic tenancies.

4. Retaliatory (“Revenge”) Evictions

Although illegal in most states, landlords may attempt to evict tenants after receiving complaints about repairs or safety issues. This form of unlawful eviction persists and can intimidate tenants into silence.

5. Lack of Tenant Protections & Fast‑Tracking Laws

In states like Florida or Texas, landlord‑friendly statutes limit tenant recourse and shorten notice requirements. In Texas, proposed legislation aims to reduce response time to as little as four days, making evictions faster and more difficult to contest.
Tenant takeaway: When procedures allow minimal time for response, many tenants can't access help in time.

Want to see how a real tenant avoided eviction after receiving a 3-day notice? Read Marisol’s success story.

Eviction Process for Commercial Tenants (Florida Example)

Understanding the commercial eviction timeline can clarify what happens if you lease a store or office:

• Review the Lease Agreement

The lease may require a “notice to cure” or other steps before filing suit. Leases often include personal guarantees that bind business owners individually.

• Provide Written Notice

• Non‑payment of rent → Minimum 3-day notice demanding payment or possession.

• Other lease violations → Typically, a 15-day “notice to cure” before filing eviction.

• File Unlawful Detainer Complaint

If the tenant doesn’t comply, the landlord files the complaint in court and serves it. The tenant usually has 5 days to answer or risk a default judgment.

• Court Hearing & Judgment

If contested, the case proceeds to a hearing or, even if unusual, a trial. Judges handle most cases; jury trials are rare in eviction matters.

• Enforcement

A successful landlord obtains a writ of possession. Law enforcement then physically removes the tenant if they don’t leave voluntarily. Locks are changed afterward, and premises are secured.

What It Means for You

• Tenants feeling overwhelmed? If you're facing eviction for missed rent or lease issues, you're far from alone. Your best next step is understanding your timeline and legal rights, and that’s what the Eviction Assistant is designed for.

• Landlords unsure about the formal process? Eviction rules vary by state and the type of notice. Missteps can delay or derail your legal action.

• Both sides benefit from plain‑language clarity. Legal notices are confusing. Knowing exactly when and how to act makes a significant difference.

Key Takeaways

• Non-payment of rent remains the #1 reason landlords file eviction notices, often after just a few months of being behind.

• Housing cost pressure and fast‑track eviction laws have accelerated filings in many states.

• Commercial evictions follow defined notice timelines (e.g. 3-day for rent, 15-day for other violations in Florida) and legal procedures.

• Retaliatory or no‑fault evictions still occur, though some jurisdictions limit or prohibit them.

• Understanding your next steps and timelines is crucial, whether you're a tenant under pressure or a landlord enforcing lease terms.

How Eviction Assistant Helps

Eviction Assistant guides users through what to expect based on their role and situation:

• Tailored notice timelines and explanation of state-specific rules in plain English

• Step-by-step guidance, whether you're trying to pause an eviction, contest it, or carry one out legally

• Clarity about rights and responsibilities, without confusing legal jargon

• Actionable next steps, whether it’s preparing documentation, setting up payment plans, or filing responses in court

Eviction Assistant helps you act with confidence and calm in a stressful time.

Facing eviction is daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The Eviction Assistant by Goat Answer provides clear, supportive information tailored to your role, notice, and timeline.