Bill > SB116

This bill amends Delaware's landlord-tenant laws to provide tenants with a right of redemption in eviction cases for non-payment of rent. The legislation creates a more structured process for tenants to avoid eviction by paying past-due rent and associated costs. Specifically, the bill extends the notice period for rent payment from 5 to 7 days, clarifies that landlords must provide written notice before initiating eviction proceedings, and establishes a right for tenants to stop an eviction by paying all past-due rent and court-related expenses at any time before the actual execution of an eviction order. The bill includes important protections, such as preventing landlords from refusing rental payments and allowing payments to be made by third parties or government entities. There are some limitations, notably that tenants who have had three prior judgments of possession for non-payment in the past 24 months cannot use this redemption process. The legislation is motivated by recognizing the significant personal and societal costs of eviction, including impacts on family stability, children's education, health, and broader community well-being. By providing tenants a meaningful opportunity to cure their rental default, the bill aims to reduce displacement and its associated negative consequences.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142157