On Tuesday, June 29, members of the North Carolina Council of State voted not to extend the eviction moratorium, despite Gov. Roy Cooper’s request for an extension through the month of July. This means that as of Thursday, July 1, landlords no longer need to provide a form from the CDC informing tenants of their right not to be evicted due to nonpayment of rent.
Despite the NC eviction moratorium expiring on June 30, the CDC’s national eviction moratorium will still be in effect for North Carolinians. This may cause confusion for landlords across the state as there are conflicting guidelines in place. Tenants may still be evicted for reasons not relating to nonpayment of rent, such as property damage. The national moratorium is set to expire July 31, meaning there will most likely be mass evictions taking place Aug. 1.
In response to the vote that ended the moratorium, Gov. Cooper released a statement, saying, “It’s disappointing to see Council of State members revoke eviction protections for people still struggling to stay in their homes. Many North Carolinians still need help, and we will work to make sure landlords abide by the CDC evictions moratorium and that tenants can access rent and utility assistance from counties and the state HOPE [Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions] program." The HOPE program helps those residing in the smaller 88 counties of NC pay their rent and/or utility bills.
Though the eviction moratorium is ending, the HOPE program will be ongoing. Through the program, those struggling financially will be able to receive assistance in paying their rent and utilities. To find out if one is eligible for assistance, visit the ReBuild NC site.
Though Gov. Cooper does not agree with the Council’s decision, the North Carolina Association of Realtors was pleased with it. The group stated, “It is time to allow housing providers to participate in the economic recovery that has been afforded to so many other struggling industries.”
North Carolina renters questioning if they will be able to continue their housing through July 31 may call (800)-569-4287 to seek housing counseling with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
By Maggie Barnhill, Staff Writer