Sandy — The Rental Housing Association of Utah (formerly the Utah Apartment Association) said today that eviction filings in the first six months of 2022 increased 46 percent compared to the same period in 2021 but remain below pre-pandemic year levels.
What is causing eviction numbers to increase?
Utah has distributed approximately $200 million in federal rental assistance since the pandemic began. “Many renters have been receiving rental assistance from the state, and that runs out after 18 months,” says Brad Randall, Board Chair of RHA. “When their rental assistance runs out, some are not able to pay rent and are receiving eviction notices.”
Utah eviction numbers in context
According to data from the courts, eviction filings in Utah increased to 2,888, in the first half of 2022, up from 1,975 filings in the first half of 2021. For the same period in 2018 and 2019 the number of evictions was 3,523 and 3,478 respectively.
“Evictions are still lower than pre-pandemic years,” Randall added. “If you compare evictions in the first half of 2022 to the first half of 2019, a more typical year before state and federal rental assistance programs took effect, evictions are down 17 percent. Utah evictions are much lower than the national average and lower than our neighboring states.”
Tips for renters struggling to pay rent
If a renter cannot pay, the best resolution is for them to move and avoid legal action that will result in a judgment and damage to their credit. “Evictions are costly for both landlords and tenants, and we all want to avoid them if possible. Having a previous eviction on your record makes it problematic to sign a lease so avoid or resolve your case before it goes to court,” Randall said. RHA says there are four safety nets renters should access when struggling to pay rent:
- Personal resources. Renters should access savings and consider selling assets to pay rent.
- Friends and family can often help.
- Churches and community organizations may pay rent if asked, and help renters create an action plan to get back on their feet.
- Government rent assistance, government benefits, etc. Utah has an eviction prevention specialist available at 801-214-3109 or mediation@utahca.org.
Is rental assistance still available?
Yes – There is still more than $100 million available for Utah renters who have not yet received rental assistance. People who made 80 percent or less of the area median income in 2020 or in the past 60 days are still eligible for rental assistance for up to 18 months. Many renters who started receiving assistance in 2020 are now no longer eligible. Renters can apply directly at www.rentrelief.utah.gov or work through a community partner agency like the Community Action Network.
What should renters do if they get an eviction notice?
“The most important thing renters need to do if they get an eviction notice is take it seriously and tell their landlord ASAP,” says Randall. “Most landlords will work with renters, but it is essential to communicate and start resolving the issues immediately.
About the Rental Housing Association of Utah
The Rental Housing Association of Utah (formerly the Utah Apartment Association) is a non-profit trade association designed to protect, educate, connect, and grow the rental industry in the state of Utah. We represent roughly 3,500 rental operators and more than 132,000 units. Our members range from basement apartment owners to large management companies. If you are in any way involved with the rental housing industry, we invite you to discover how membership can support you and your business.