Residential Evictions Halted In Philadelphia Until September 23rd

Writs of possession, the first step in the eviction process, may be served in limited numbers before September 19th and in unlimited numbers after September 21st, but all writs of possession must be accompanied by the CDC’s Order, along with a declaration for the tenant to provide to the landlord in compliance with the CDC’s Order to prevent a potential eviction.

CDC Order Restrictions on Evictions

Under the CDC’s Order, a landlord may not evict a residential tenant before December 31, 2020 if the tenant can certify, under penalty of perjury, that a financial hardship due to Covid-19 exists, such as:

• The tenant earning $99,000 or less per year or is eligible for a pandemic stimulus check;
• The tenant’s inability to pay rent is due to loss in income or “extraordinary” medical expenses;
• The tenant is attempting to obtain governmental rental assistance;
• The tenant has made “best efforts” to pay as much rent as possible on time; or
• There is a possibility of the tenant ending up homeless or living in cramped quarters if evicted.

Rent Obligations and Local Legislation

Tenants are still required to pay rent during the pendency of this period and may be evicted for reasons other than non-payment of rent.

Additionally, Councilwoman Helen Gym announced that she would introduce a bill to extend the city’s eviction moratorium through December 31st.

Legal Assistance for Landlords and Tenants

If you have questions about these new governmental restrictions, please feel free to contact us at info@nochumson.com and an attorney at Nochumson P.C. will immediately reach out to you to schedule a free consultation.