Del. Legislation Addresses “Eviction Crisis”

Delaware tenants who face financial hardship and possible eviction would get access to legal help and other services under a bill approved in the State Senate Tuesday.

The measure, Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 101, also would create a diversion program that would resolve most landlord-tenant disputes before they go to court. Tenants would also be allowed to remain in their homes if all back rent, fees and costs are paid before an eviction. And, eviction proceedings could not be brought for anything less than $500 or one month’s rent.

“I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for voting today to help ensure our neighbors can stay in their homes when they face temporary financial instability,” Senate Majority Leader Bryan Townsend, D-Newark/Bear said. “No one should be cast into the streets before being given every opportunity to uphold their end of a lease agreement and yet that’s what happens to more than 18,000 households every year. This legislation will restore balance to the system and produce better outcomes for families   who are struggling to keep food on the table and roof over their heads.” 

The bill goes to the House for consideration.