Evictions and COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in millions of lost jobs. In turn, many Americans struggled to keep up with rent. Faced with the threat of a massive wave of evictions, the federal government stepped in to halt certain evictions for nonpayment of rent. These protections kept millions of Americans housed and likely prevented further spread of COVID-19. Some states and localities imposed their own moratoriums. However, many evictions still took place as landlords, hit with their own financial challenges, utilized techniques allowable under the law to remove tenants. The temporary eviction protections also did little to help heavily indebted tenants owing back rent, which led economists and housing experts to warn about a possible eviction tsunami once the moratoriums end. The crisis is likely to have a lasting impact on renters and landlords alike and has raised broader questions about the lack of affordable housing in the United States and how policymakers should confront these challenges.