Evictions can be expensive and time-consuming. Aside from the lengthy process, it is also complicated and often requires a landlord to seek legal assistance. Most landlords consider eviction a last resort.
If you are a landlord looking into your options, it is usually better to compromise with your tenant than initiate eviction proceedings. That said, if your tenant refuses to meet you or accept your notice, you have the legal right to evict them – as long as you follow these steps.
Follow the legal process
It is essential to follow the legal process every step of the way. Before serving the notice, you must ensure you are within your rights to evict them. Legal grounds for eviction in Minnesota include the following:
- Failure to pay rent
- Violation of the lease
- Illegal activity
- Failure to renew the lease
Once you have ensured your reasons for eviction fall within any of these, you can start writing your eviction notice.
Write a valid, legal eviction notice
Your notice must have the following elements:
- Full name of the tenant and their address of record
- End date of the lease
- Reason for eviction
- The full address of your property from which they are being evicted
- Your or your property manager’s full contact details (both address and phone number)
- Your printed name and signature
Once written, you can serve it personally, through registered mail with a return receipt, or post it conspicuously on the rented premises.
File a complaint in court
You can file your eviction complaint in court once you have served the notice legally. The process is a bit tedious, so it is advisable to get the help of a legal representative. You must pay a filing fee and wait for the court to serve its summons. A hearing date is set, and you present your case. The judge will issue a decision, and the sheriff will enforce it.