Section 8 Eviction in Sacramento: Full Landlord Guide
Sacramento landlords: learn the exact 2025 rules to remove a Section 8 tenant and stay HUD-compliant. Evicting a Section 8 tenant is not the same as evicting a regular tenant. You must follow both California eviction laws and federal HUD guidelines. One mistake can cost you months of lost rent.
This guide will help you understand:
- When you can legally evict
- What forms do you need
- How long does the process take
- When to hire a Section 8 eviction lawyer in Sacramento
Can You Evict a Section 8 Tenant? (2025 Rules)
Yes, you can evict a Section 8 tenant, but the rules are stricter. HUD protects tenants receiving housing assistance, so your eviction must follow both California law and federal housing guidelines.
Here’s what you need to know:
- You must have a legal reason (called “good cause”).
- You must notify both the tenant and the housing authority (PHA).
- The tenant has additional rights and more time to respond.
- You cannot evict just because you no longer want to rent to them.
👉 For official HUD guidance, review the HUD Occupancy Handbook (Chapter 8: Termination of Tenancy).
Grounds for Eviction
The table below shows legal reasons to evict a Section 8 tenant in Sacramento in 2025.
| Grounds for Eviction | Description |
|---|---|
| Nonpayment of rent | Breaking a lease term (e.g., unauthorized pet, guests) |
| Lease violation | Breaking a lease term (e.g. unauthorized pet, guests) |
| Criminal or drug activity | Engaged in illegal actions on or near the unit |
| Property damage | Caused serious damage to the property |
| Threat to health/safety | Risk to others in the building |
| Repeated late payments | Pattern of paying rent late consistently |
Alt-text for chart: “Grounds for evicting a Section 8 tenant, Sacramento 2025.”
📝 Note: Evictions for minor infractions or personal disputes usually will not be upheld in court.
Step-by-Step Timeline
Section 8 evictions take longer than regular ones. Here’s the general process timeline:
Day 0: Serve Notice
- Use a 3-day notice to pay or quit, a 30/60-day notice, or notice to cure (depending on the reason).
- Send a copy of the notice to the local Public Housing Authority (PHA).
📍 Sacramento Housing Authority:
https://www.sac.hcd.ca.gov
(916) 440-1390
Day 1–30: Waiting Period
- The tenant has a chance to correct the issue, move out, or prepare a defense.
- If they don’t comply, you can file for unlawful detainer in court.
Court Hearing
- You file the eviction case with the Sacramento County Superior Court.
- The tenant may get a free lawyer under California’s Right to Counsel program.
- Be prepared with proper HUD paperwork and evidence.
Court Website: https://www.saccourt.ca.gov
Writ of Possession
- If you win, the judge grants a writ of possession.
- The sheriff serves this to the tenant. They typically get 5 days to leave.
- If they refuse, the sheriff will perform a lockout.
⏳ Total time: 30–90+ days, depending on court backlog and tenant defenses.
Required HUD Forms & Where to File
To remain HUD-compliant, landlords must submit notices and documentation to the PHA. Here’s a checklist of required documents:
- Copy of the lease violation or eviction notice
- Copy of the lease agreement
- Proof of nonpayment or lease breach
- Notice to the tenant and PHA
- Any evidence of damage or illegal activity
📩 Send documents to:
Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA)
630 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
https://www.shra.org
📥 Download Required HUD Forms (PDF)
📄 Download: 5‑Step Section 8 Eviction Checklist (PDF)
Stay on track and protect yourself from costly mistakes.
✅ Easy-to-follow guide
✅ Includes PHA contact info
✅ Court forms and deadlines included
👉 Download the PDF Checklist (link placeholder)
When to Call a Lawyer
Evicting a Section 8 tenant is not DIY-friendly. If you miss a step or skip a HUD requirement, your case could be dismissed. You should contact a Section 8 eviction lawyer in Sacramento if:
- The tenant files a complaint or countersues
- You suspect criminal activity
- You’re unsure about HUD paperwork
- You’re dealing with multiple tenants or housing vouchers
🎯 Need legal help fast?
Book your consultation today with a trusted eviction lawyer:
👉 Schedule with The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I evict a Section 8 tenant without a reason?
No. You must have a documented and lawful reason that follows both your lease terms and HUD’s “good cause” standards.
Do I need to notify the housing authority?
Yes. Any notice served to the tenant must also be sent to the PHA. Failing to do this will likely get your case dismissed.
What happens if the tenant has legal aid?
They may delay the process or negotiate a settlement. A lawyer for landlords can help you respond correctly and avoid costly delays.
Next – The California Eviction Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Landlords and Tenants
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