How to Serve Notice in Pennsylvania to a Boyfriend to Vacate My Home

The choice to cohabit with your boyfriend is always personal. Besides the usual love commitment, factors like the rising cost of living, fear of marriage or the possibility of divorce may have influenced your decision to live with him. Conflicts in the relationship may cause break-ups that lead to separation. If both of you co-own a home or property in the state of Pennsylvania, issues concerning property division may arise during the split.

But if you are the homeowner or if the rental lease is in your name and your boyfriend does not move out, you can begin eviction proceedings. The eviction process comes under the Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Act of 1951.

Things You'll Need

  • Written eviction notice
  • Notice to quit
  • Evidence of home ownership or rental lease in your name
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Instructions

    • 1

      Collect evidence of your status as the leaseholder or ownership of the dwelling. This includes copies of the rental agreement or the lease in your name. If you co-own the home, fill out a petition with the Justice Office within your district for an eviction notice by providing reasons stated under law that may warrant such an eviction, such as nonpayment of rent (if you had such an agreement) or violent or criminal behavior.

    • 2

      Visit your local City or County Clerk's Office to obtain information explaining the eviction procedure. Laws may be specific to your particular location. Inquire about the legal implications and ask questions if you need clarification. You may want to consult an attorney to ensure that you are following the proper formal procedure for the intended eviction or if you have uncertainties about problems that could arise from it.

    • 3

      Notify your boyfriend about his eviction. Verbally tell him why you are evicting him and the date by which he must vacate. Be respectful and calm in announcing your decision concerning his eviction. If he complies, no legal procedure will be necessary. Remain calm and rational when talking to him.

      If your boyfriend reacts violently, be sure to alert the proper authorities, such as the local police, to keep yourself safe. In the worst-case scenario, you may need to vacate or go to a safe house, at least temporarily, until legal authorities can deal with the situation. Do not put up with physical or emotional abuse.

    • 4

      Deliver a 15-day or 30-day "notice to quit" to your boyfriend either by hand or mail. Some advise photographing the delivery method to serve as evidence, if required in court. If you plan to mail it, use registered mail to serve as proof.

    • 5

      If your boyfriend fails to leave within the prescribed 15 to 30 days, in accordance with the notice to quit, file a complaint with the Justice Office in the district in which you reside. This gives you a legal warrant of eviction.

    • 6

      Present a copy of the warrant to the local sheriff. You can reach him by contacting the Pennsylvania Sheriffs' Association or visiting your local police station. Only an officer of the law can serve the warrant to your boyfriend. The sheriff may then physically remove your partner from the premises if he fails to vacate the home within 72 hours.

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