Bill > H267

This bill provides a comprehensive framework for expunging (removing) certain eviction court records in North Carolina, establishing different procedures based on the outcome of summary ejectment (eviction) proceedings. For eviction cases filed after October 1, 2025, the bill mandates automatic expungement of court records if the case is voluntarily dismissed before an order of possession is entered by a magistrate or district court. For cases where the defendant is found in their favor on the merits, they can petition for expungement. In cases where the plaintiff wins, the defendant must wait three years and demonstrate housing stability (through consistent rent payments and absence of additional eviction proceedings) before being eligible to petition for record expungement. The Administrative Office of the Courts is required to develop standardized petition forms by September 30, 2025, and these forms will require specific details about the eviction case, such as the date of the order, property address, and plaintiff's name. The goal of this legislation appears to be protecting tenants from long-term negative consequences of eviction proceedings, particularly those that are dismissed or result in a favorable outcome for the tenant.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H267