Getting an eviction notice can be a gut-wrenching experience.
Your mind races with questions: Where will I go? How will I afford to move? Is there any way to appeal this decision?
The good news is that you have options.
With a well-crafted letter of appeal, you may be able to reverse the eviction and keep your home.
In this article, we’ll provide you with 15 sample letters that you can use as templates for your appeal.
Whether you’re facing eviction due to missed payments, property damage, or a landlord dispute, we’ve got you covered.
Keep reading to learn how to write an effective appeal letter and see examples that you can adapt to your situation.
Sample Letters of Appeal after Eviction
Below are 15 sample letters that you can use as inspiration when crafting your appeal:
Letter 1: Appeal for More Time to Pay Rent
Subject: Appeal for Extension on Rent Payment – Unit 3B
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to request an extension on this month’s rent payment for my apartment, Unit 3B at [Address]. As you may know, I recently lost my job due to company-wide layoffs. While I am actively seeking new employment, I am temporarily without income and will be unable to pay rent by the 1st of the month.
I am requesting a 30-day extension on my rent payment. I am confident that I will secure a new job within this timeframe and will be able to pay my rent in full, including any late fees, by [Date]. I have been a reliable tenant for [Number] years and have always paid my rent on time. I assure you that this is a one-time request due to extenuating circumstances.
Please let me know if you are willing to grant this extension. I am happy to provide documentation of my job loss and job search efforts if needed. Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 2: Appeal Explaining Extenuating Circumstances
Subject: Appeal of Eviction Notice – Extenuating Circumstances
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I received a 30-day eviction notice dated [Date] for my rental unit at [Address]. I am writing to appeal this decision and request that you allow me to remain in my home.
I want to explain the extenuating circumstances that led to my inability to pay rent for the past two months. In [Month], my child was hospitalized with a serious illness. As a single parent, I had to take unpaid time off work to be with them in the hospital. This unexpected loss of income, combined with substantial medical bills, made it impossible for me to keep up with my rent payments.
Fortunately, my child is now recovering, and I am back at work full-time. I have also set up a payment plan with the hospital. I am confident that I can catch up on my late rent payments and stay current moving forward. I am attaching documentation of my child’s hospital stay and my payment plan as evidence of my situation and my commitment to resolving it.
I have been a responsible tenant for [Number] years, and I assure you that this was an isolated incident due to a family emergency. Please reconsider the eviction in light of these circumstances. I am willing to work with you to establish a repayment plan for the late rent.
Thank you for your understanding and compassion.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 3: Appeal Disputing Eviction Reasons
Subject: Dispute of Eviction Notice – Apartment 12C
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing in response to the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my apartment, Unit 12C at [Address]. I firmly believe that this eviction is unjustified and I am requesting that you rescind the notice immediately.
The eviction notice stated that the reason for eviction was a violation of the lease agreement, specifically “excessive noise complaints.” However, I have not received any prior notices about noise complaints, either verbally or in writing. As a tenant, I am entitled to proper notice and an opportunity to address any issues before facing eviction.
Moreover, I do not believe that I have been excessively noisy. I live alone and generally keep to myself. I have never had parties or loud gatherings in my apartment. If there have been noise complaints, I suspect they may be due to the thin walls in the building, which is outside of my control.
I have been a model tenant for [Number] years, always paying rent on time and respecting the property. I have never before been accused of violating my lease. I strongly believe that this eviction is baseless and possibly retaliatory.
I am requesting a meeting with you to discuss this matter further and clear up any misunderstandings. I am confident that we can resolve this issue without resorting to eviction. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule a meeting.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 4: Appeal Proposing a Compromise
Subject: Proposal for Resolving Eviction – Apartment 7D
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I received your eviction notice dated [Date] for my apartment, Unit 7D at [Address]. I understand that the reason for the eviction is non-payment of rent for the past month. I take full responsibility for falling behind on my rent and I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this has caused you.
I am writing to propose a compromise that would allow me to stay in my apartment and make good on my late rent. I recently started a new job after a period of unemployment. My first paycheck is scheduled for [Date], two weeks from now. If you are willing to give me until that date, I commit to paying my late rent in full, plus any applicable late fees.
In addition, I am willing to sign a new lease agreement with a slightly higher rent to compensate for this inconvenience, if you feel that is appropriate. I have been a responsible tenant for [Number] years and I assure you that this late payment was an anomaly due to my job transition.
I believe this proposal is a win-win solution. You will receive your late rent and retain a reliable, long-term tenant. I will be able to keep my home and prove my commitment to timely payments moving forward.
Please let me know if you are open to this compromise. I am eager to resolve this matter amicably and put it behind us.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 5: Appeal Requesting a Payment Plan
Subject: Request for Rent Payment Plan – Unit 15E
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing regarding the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my apartment, Unit 15E at [Address]. I understand that I am behind on my rent by [$Amount] and I take full responsibility for this lapse.
I am writing to request that, rather than proceeding with the eviction, you allow me to set up a payment plan to catch up on my late rent. I have recently experienced a temporary setback in my income due to [Reason – e.g., reduced work hours, unexpected expenses]. However, my situation is improving and I am confident that I can get back on track with a structured repayment plan.
Here is what I propose:
– I will pay my current month’s rent on time and in full on the 1st of [Month].
– In addition, I will pay an extra [$Amount] per month towards my late rent, spread out over the next [Number] months.
– This will allow me to fully catch up on my late rent by [Date].
I understand that this is asking for flexibility on your part, and I greatly appreciate your consideration. I have been a reliable tenant for [Number] years and I fully intend to make good on my rental obligations. A payment plan will allow me to do so in a manageable way.
Please let me know if you are willing to accept this proposal. I am happy to discuss the specifics further and put our agreement in writing.
Thank you for your understanding,
[Your Name]
Letter 6: Appeal Citing Landlord’s Failure to Make Repairs
Subject: Eviction Appeal Due to Unresolved Maintenance Issues – Unit 8A
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to appeal the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my apartment, Unit 8A at [Address]. I believe this eviction is unjustified given the ongoing, unresolved maintenance issues in my apartment.
As I have communicated to you on several occasions, both verbally and in writing, there are serious problems with my apartment that have gone unaddressed. These include: – A leaking roof that has caused water damage to my walls and floor – A broken heating system that left my apartment without heat for weeks in the winter – An infestation of mice due to holes in the walls that I have requested be repaired
I have made numerous attempts to resolve these issues, including submitting formal maintenance requests on [Dates]. However, no substantial repairs have been made. Living in these conditions has been challenging and has arguably rendered my apartment uninhabitable at times.
I have been withholding a portion of my rent in an attempt to compel you to make these necessary repairs, as is my right under [State] law. However, instead of addressing the issues, you have chosen to evict me. I believe this eviction is retaliatory and an attempt to avoid your responsibilities as a landlord.
I am requesting that you cancel the eviction and fulfill your obligation to provide a safe and livable apartment. I am prepared to pay my withheld rent once the necessary repairs are made. If you are unwilling to do so, I am prepared to defend myself in eviction court and present evidence of the unresolved maintenance issues.
I hope we can resolve this matter without legal action. Please contact me to discuss a plan for making the necessary repairs to my apartment.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 7: Appeal Addressing Unauthorized Occupants
Subject: Response to Eviction Notice – Addressing Unauthorized Occupants
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing in response to the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my rental unit at [Address]. The notice states that I violated my lease agreement due to unauthorized occupants living in my apartment. I want to address this issue and clarify the situation.
I have indeed had guests staying with me in my apartment recently. However, these guests are not unauthorized occupants. They are my family members who are visiting from out of town, namely my [Relation] and their children. They are staying with me temporarily while they are in the area.
My lease agreement allows for guests to stay in my apartment for up to [Number] consecutive days. My family has not exceeded this limit. They arrived on [Date] and will be leaving on [Date], which is within the allowed timeframe.
I apologize for any misunderstanding or inconvenience this may have caused. I assure you that I am not subletting my apartment or allowing anyone to live here permanently without being on the lease. I am committed to abiding by the terms of my rental agreement.
Please reconsider the eviction in light of this explanation. I am happy to provide further details about my guests and their stay if needed. If you still have concerns, I am open to discussing them and finding a resolution.
Thank you for your understanding,
[Your Name]
Letter 8: Appeal Due to Domestic Violence
Subject: Appeal of Eviction – Protections under the Violence Against Women Act
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to appeal the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my apartment at [Address]. I believe this eviction violates my rights under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
I am a victim of domestic violence. My abuser is [Name], who was living with me in the apartment but is not on the lease. The incidents of violence, which included [brief description of abuse], caused significant disruptions to the apartment, including [damage, police visits, etc].
Under VAWA, I cannot be evicted or penalized due to the actions of my abuser. This includes evictions based on damage to the property, noise disturbances, or other issues caused by the abuse. My status as a victim of domestic violence affords me certain protections under federal law.
I have taken steps to ensure my safety and prevent further disturbances, including [steps taken, e.g., obtaining a restraining order, and removing the abuser from the apartment]. I am committed to maintaining a safe and peaceful living environment.
I am requesting that you cancel the eviction and allow me to continue living in my apartment, as is my right under VAWA. I am prepared to provide documentation of the abuse, such as police reports or a restraining order, if necessary to support my claim.
Please advise me of your decision on this matter. If you have any questions or require further information, do not hesitate to contact me. I appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 9: Appeal Citing Illegal Eviction Procedures
Subject: Illegal Eviction Notice – Violation of State Law
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to contest the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my rental unit at [Address]. I believe this eviction is illegal and in violation of [State] law.
The eviction notice I received does not comply with the legal requirements for evictions in our state. Specifically: – The notice does not provide the legally required [Number] days’ notice for an eviction – The notice does not specify the reason for the eviction, as mandated by state law – I was not served the notice in the manner required by state statute
Furthermore, I have not violated my lease agreement in any way that would warrant an eviction. I have paid my rent on time and have not engaged in any prohibited conduct. I believe this eviction may be an attempt at retaliation or discrimination, which is illegal under the [State] Fair Housing Act.
Due to these legal deficiencies, I consider this eviction notice to be null and void. I request that you immediately rescind the notice and allow me to continue living in my apartment undisturbed.
If you proceed with this illegal eviction, I am prepared to defend my rights in court. I will present evidence of how this eviction violates state law and my lease agreement. I strongly advise you to reconsider this course of action.
Please confirm in writing that you are withdrawing the eviction notice. If you believe you have grounds for a legal eviction, please ensure that you follow all state-mandated procedures.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 10: Appeal Based on Fair Housing Discrimination
Subject: Discriminatory Eviction – Violation of the Fair Housing Act
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to appeal the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my rental unit at [Address]. I believe this eviction is discriminatory and violates my rights under the federal Fair Housing Act.
I am a [protected characteristic, e.g., race, religion, disability] and I believe this eviction is based on that status. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on [list of protected classes].
The circumstances leading me to believe this eviction is discriminatory are:
– [Example of discriminatory conduct or statement by landlord]
– [Example of being treated differently from other tenants]
– [Any other relevant factors]
I have been a responsible tenant and have not violated my lease agreement in any way. I have paid my rent on time and have not engaged in any misconduct. The only factor that seems to be driving this eviction is my [protected characteristic].
Discrimination in housing is illegal under federal law. I am prepared to file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and pursue legal action if necessary to protect my rights.
I am requesting that you immediately withdraw this discriminatory eviction notice and allow me to continue living in my apartment without harassment or prejudice. I also request that you take steps to ensure that no other tenants face discrimination in the future.
Please advise me of your intentions. If you do not rescind the eviction notice, I will have no choice but to pursue legal remedies.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 11: Appeal Explaining Reasonable Accommodation for Disability
Subject: Request for Reasonable Accommodation – Appeal of Eviction
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to appeal the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my apartment at [Address]. I believe this eviction is based on a misunderstanding related to my disability and I am requesting a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act.
I have a [disability] which is considered a disability under the Fair Housing Act. My disability affects me in the following ways: [brief description of effects].
The eviction notice cites [reason for eviction] as the cause for eviction. However, this issue is directly related to my disability. [Explain how the disability caused or contributed to the issue]. I did not intend to violate my lease agreement, and the problem was a direct result of my disability.
Under the Fair Housing Act, I am entitled to reasonable accommodations for my disability. In this case, I am requesting the following accommodation: [proposed accommodation, e.g., allowing an assistance animal, providing additional time to pay rent]. This accommodation would alleviate the issue cited in the eviction notice and allow me to continue being a responsible tenant.
I am happy to provide documentation of my disability if needed, such as a letter from my doctor. I am also open to discussing alternative accommodations that would meet both of our needs.
Please let me know if you are willing to grant this reasonable accommodation and rescind the eviction notice. I look forward to working with you to find a mutually agreeable solution.
Thank you for your understanding,
[Your Name]
Letter 12: Appeal from a Section 8 Tenant
Subject: Appeal of Section 8 Eviction – Request for Informal Hearing
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Housing Authority],
I am writing to appeal the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my Section 8 rental unit at [Address]. As a Section 8 tenant, I am entitled to certain protections and rights in the eviction process which I believe have not been followed in this case.
Specifically, I have the right to request an informal hearing to discuss the proposed eviction and present my case. I hereby request such a hearing. Please advise me of the date, time, and location of the hearing, allowing me sufficient time to prepare.
I also request that you provide me with a detailed explanation of the reasons for the proposed eviction, as well as copies of any evidence or documentation that will be presented against me at the hearing. I am entitled to review this information in advance to prepare my defense.
Please be aware that, under Section 8 regulations, I can only be evicted for serious or repeated violations of the lease or other good cause. I do not believe that the reasons cited in the eviction notice meet this standard. I am prepared to argue this point at the informal hearing.
I understand that I have the right to be represented by counsel at the hearing. Please let me know if legal representation will be available or if I need to arrange for my own.
I look forward to the opportunity to discuss this matter and clear up any misunderstandings. Please confirm receipt of this request for an informal hearing and provide me with the necessary details.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 13: Appeal Offering to Attend Mediation
Subject: Proposal for Mediation – Eviction Appeal
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I received your eviction notice dated [Date] for my rental unit at [Address]. While I understand that there have been some issues with my tenancy, I believe that eviction is a drastic step and I am hoping we can find a resolution through open communication and compromise.
I am writing to propose that we attend mediation to discuss the issues at hand and try to come to a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps facilitate discussion and negotiation between parties in conflict. It can be a constructive way to air grievances, clear up misunderstandings, and find creative solutions.
I am willing to take responsibility for my role in any problems and to work in good faith to address your concerns. In turn, I hope you will be open to hearing my perspective and considering alternatives to eviction.
Some issues I would like to discuss in mediation include:
– [Issue 1]
– [Issue 2]
– [Issue 3]
I believe that with open and honest dialogue, we may be able to find a way forward that works for both of us and preserves our rental relationship.
Please let me know if you are willing to participate in mediation. If so, I am happy to help arrange for a mediator and schedule a session at a mutually convenient time.
I look forward to your response and the opportunity to resolve this matter amicably.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 14: Appeal Citing COVID-19 Eviction Moratorium
Subject: Eviction During COVID-19 Pandemic – Violation of Eviction Moratorium
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to appeal the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my rental unit at [Address]. I believe this eviction violates the current eviction moratorium put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under [state or federal moratorium order], there is currently a ban on most residential evictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect public health. This moratorium applies to all tenants, regardless of the reason for eviction.
The eviction notice I received does not fall under any of the exceptions to the moratorium, such as criminal activity or substantial property damage. It cites [reason for eviction], which is not a valid reason for eviction under the current order.
Furthermore, I have been directly impacted by the pandemic in the following ways: [explain COVID-related hardship, e.g., job loss, illness]. This has affected my ability to pay rent, which I believe may be the underlying reason for the eviction attempt.
I request that you immediately withdraw this eviction notice and allow me to remain in my home, as is my right under the eviction moratorium. If there are concerns about my tenancy, I am open to discussing them and finding solutions, but eviction is not a legal option at this time.
Please be aware that violating the eviction moratorium can result in significant penalties, including fines and legal action. I am prepared to defend my rights under the moratorium if necessary.
I look forward to your prompt confirmation that the eviction notice will be rescinded. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during these difficult times.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter 15: Appeal Referencing Constructive Eviction
Subject: Appeal of Eviction – Constructive Eviction Conditions
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to appeal the eviction notice I received on [Date] for my rental unit at [Address]. I believe that the conditions in my apartment constitute a constructive eviction and that attempting to evict me under these circumstances is illegal.
Constructive eviction occurs when a landlord allows a rental property to become uninhabitable, effectively forcing the tenant to move out. In my case, the following conditions have made my apartment unlivable:
– [Condition 1, e.g., no running water]
– [Condition 2, e.g., severe mold infestation]
– [Condition 3, e.g., non-functional heating]
I have made numerous attempts to have these issues addressed, including [describe attempts to notify the landlord and request repairs]. However, no action has been taken to remedy these serious habitability problems.
Under [state] law, I have the right to withhold rent in cases of constructive eviction, until the issues making the property unlivable are resolved. This is the action I have taken, and I believe it is the reason for the retaliatory eviction notice.
Attempting to evict a tenant for exercising their legal rights is a form of illegal retaliation. I request that you immediately withdraw the eviction notice and take swift action to address the habitability issues in my apartment. If repairs are made and the apartment is made livable again, I will promptly pay any withheld rent.
If you do not withdraw the eviction notice, I am prepared to defend myself in court and present evidence of the uninhabitable conditions and my attempts to have them remedied. I will argue that the eviction is illegal and that I am entitled to damages for the impact the constructive eviction has had on me.
Please advise me of your intentions and your plan to address the habitability issues. I hope we can resolve this matter without the need for legal action.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Wrapping Up: Sample Letters of Appeal after Eviction
Receiving an eviction notice can be scary, but remember that you have rights and options.
An appeal letter is your opportunity to tell your side of the story and potentially prevent an eviction.
Use the sample letters provided here as a starting point, but be sure to customize your letter to your specific situation.
Be honest, concise, and respectful in your communication.
Provide evidence and documentation where applicable, and be open to compromise and negotiation.
Remember, landlords are often more interested in resolving issues and continuing a rental relationship than going through the hassle and expense of an eviction.
An appeal letter can open the door to productive dialogue.
If your appeal is not successful, know that there are still resources available to you.
Seek out legal aid, tenant advocacy organizations, and social services for support and guidance.
No one should have to face eviction alone.
With knowledge of your rights, a compelling appeal, and a support network, you can navigate this challenging situation and secure your housing future.