How to Rent an Apartment After Being Evicted

• Author: Aubrey Sipes
• Posted: 2026-04-01

Yes, You Can Still Find a Place to Live

Getting evicted is frightening, but it doesn't mean you'll never rent again. Many people find new apartments even with an eviction on their record.

In fact, about 1 to 1.5 million evictions happen every year in the United States according to Princeton University's Eviction Lab.

The key is knowing how to search for housing, how to present yourself to landlords, and what steps you can take to improve your chances.
 

How Long Does an Eviction Stay on Your Record?

An eviction can show up on different types of records, and each one has its own timeline:
 

• Tenant screening reports: Usually show eviction information for up to 7 years
• Credit reports: Unpaid rent sent to collections can appear for up to 7 years
• Public court records: May stay available forever unless a court removes them

Even if your case was dismissed, some screening companies still report that you were taken to court. This can affect your rental applications.
 

6 Strategies to Help You Rent After an Eviction

1. Try to Remove the Eviction From Your Record

In some situations, you can ask the court to remove or "expunge" your eviction record. This is more likely if:
 

1. The eviction was filed by mistake
2. You resolved the issue with your old landlord
3. The case was dismissed

Even if you can't fully remove it, showing that you tried to fix things can impress future landlords.

2. Gather References

Talk to your previous landlord, especially if you've paid off any money you owed. Ask if they'll write a letter confirming that you made things right.

A positive reference can go a long way in helping you get approved.

3. Focus on Private Landlords

Big apartment companies often have strict rules that automatically reject applicants with evictions. Private landlords who own just one or two properties are usually more flexible.

They may be willing to listen to your story and consider your current situation.

4. Look in Smaller Towns or Neighborhoods

In big cities, there's more competition and less flexibility.

Smaller towns and locally owned buildings often have landlords who are more interested in filling empty units than rejecting people over past mistakes.

You can also look for:
 

1. Short-term or month-to-month rentals
2. Landlords who don't run credit checks (but be careful of scams)

5. Offer Extra Money Upfront

If you have savings, consider offering:
 

• Rent in advance: Paying 2-3 months upfront shows you're financially stable
• A higher security deposit: This gives the landlord extra protection
• Slightly higher monthly rent: This can make your application stand out

Only offer what you can truly afford. Don't spend all your savings and leave yourself without emergency funds.

6. Prepare an Honest Explanation

Be upfront about your past eviction. Explain what happened and what has changed since then. Focus on:
 

1. Your steady income
2. Improved credit
3. Steps you've taken to be more responsible

Landlords appreciate honesty and want to see that you've learned from the experience.

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Read more: Court Rules Landlords Can Legally Refuse Section 8 Vouchers