 Ask Phyllis: a blog series of frequently asked real estate questions.
Dear Phyllis,
I’ve been following your column for many years. About fifteen years ago, I wrote to you when you were writing for the Glendale News-Press. It was regarding a tenant who had stopped paying rent. This tenant had been renting my home in La Crescenta for about eight years. For the first seven years, they consistently paid the rent. But in the final year, they began making excuse after excuse, and despite my efforts to work with them, it became clear they had no intention of paying—even a token amount.
After six months of nonpayment, I reached out to your column, and you kindly referred me to an eviction attorney who was able to help me remove the tenant. You also suggested that I get a judgment for the back rent. You explained that a judgment could affect their ability to get loans, impact their credit, and serve as a warning to future landlords.
When the judgment neared expiration, I called you and you encouraged me to renew it—and I’m glad I did. I just wanted to let you know that they finally paid me. Thank you so much for your guidance and support throughout this long process.
Robert
Dear Robert,
Thank you so much for your kind words. It’s always rewarding to hear how things turn out, especially after such a long and difficult road. It’s interesting to note that in today’s environment, evictions for nonpayment of rent take much longer. My last experience with a client was about 18 months to get a nonpaying tenant out.
You handled a very challenging situation with patience and persistence, and I’m glad to know that the steps we discussed ultimately paid off — literally! Many landlords are unaware that a properly filed and renewed judgment can have long-term effects that often lead to eventual repayment, even years later. Your story is a great reminder for other property owners: don’t give up, document everything, and make use of the legal tools available — including eviction when necessary and pursuing a civil judgment. Staying on the course, as you did, can eventually bring results.
Congratulations on finally resolving the issue, and thank you again for sharing the outcome. I’m sure your experience will inspire others dealing with similar challenges.
