The Eviction Resolution Pilot Program (ERPP) has been a significant hurdle for landlords and property managers in Washington State since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed to protect tenants from eviction due to nonpayment of rent, the ERPP has often left landlords bearing the brunt of the financial burden. However, the countdown to a new era has begun. As of June 30, 2023, the ERPP is set to expire, and landlords across the state are preparing for this long-awaited change.
The ERPP Expiration: A Relief for Landlords
The ERPP was implemented as a response to the pandemic's impact on tenants' ability to pay rent. It aimed to divert nonpayment of rent cases away from the courts and into a resolution process. However, the reality was that only a small percentage of agreements were followed through upon, leaving landlords in a challenging financial position.
With the upcoming expiration of the ERPP, landlords will experience significant changes in the eviction process for nonpayment of rent. Procedures established by the ERPP will no longer be required, simplifying the eviction process; these include:
The requirement to participate in the ERPP before filing an unlawful detainer action based on nonpayment of rent will be removed. Landlords will be able to proceed directly with eviction processes without mandatory participation in the ERPP.
The obligation to provide an ERPP-approved notice to the tenant about the eviction resolution program prior to filing an unlawful detainer action will no longer be necessary. Landlords will be able to communicate directly with tenants without the need for ERPP-approved notices.
The necessity to file a Dispute Resolution Center (DRC) Certification Form at the time of filing a summons and complaint with the court will no longer be in effect. This means less paperwork and fewer procedural steps for landlords during the eviction process.
Preparing for the Post-ERPP Landscape
As a landlord or property manager, it's time to reclaim control over your properties. Familiarizing yourself with these new procedures and requirements will ensure you are in compliance with the law when dealing with nonpayment of rent cases. Understanding the new legislation, including the right to counsel for indigent tenants in unlawful detainer proceedings, is also essential.
LandlordSolutions: Your Ally in the Post-ERPP Era
Navigating these changes can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. LandlordSolutions Inc. is here to help you transition into the post-ERPP era with confidence. Our team of experts can guide you through the new procedures, ensuring you're prepared for what's ahead.
We offer consulting services tailored to landlords and property managers, helping you navigate these changes and protect your interests. Whether you need assistance understanding the new notice requirements or help processing evictions, our team is ready to support you.
The countdown to the ERPP expiration has begun. It's time to prepare for a new era of landlord-tenant relations in Washington State. Contact LandlordSolutions Inc. today for expert guidance and support. Together, we can ensure you're ready to reclaim control over your properties and navigate the new landscape with confidence.
