Strategies for Locating an Evicted Tenant Who Owes Back Rent

Locating an evicted tenant who owes back rent can be a challenging task, but there are several effective strategies you can employ to find their new address. Whether it's through public records, social media, or professional services, these methods can help you recover the debt you're owed. Below, we outline a comprehensive approach to locating and recovering from an evicted tenant.

Check Public Records

Begin your search by examining local court records for any recent filings related to the tenant. They may have filed for bankruptcy, which could provide clues about their whereabouts. Other legal actions, such as eviction proceedings, may also offer valuable information. Public records can be accessed through the county courthouse or online through local government websites.

Contact Previous Employers

If you have information about where the tenant worked, it can be beneficial to contact their former employer. They may be able to provide information on the tenant's new address. However, be mindful of privacy policies and follow appropriate guidelines when requesting this information.

Use Social Media

Search for the tenant on social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. They may have updated their profile to include their new location or shared other information that could assist in locating them. Note: Be cautious about using this method and respect privacy laws and regulations.

Send Mail

Send a letter to the last known address, clearly marked 'Return to Sender'. Packages and letters that are returned to the sender often include a forwarding address, which can provide valuable information. Additionally, you can include some form of payment or a business card to further encourage a response.

Hire a Skip Tracer

If the amount of back rent is significant, consider hiring a professional skip tracer. These individuals specialize in locating people who have moved without leaving a forwarding address. They can provide you with a detailed report on the tenant's current location and history of address changes.

Use Online Databases

There are various online services and databases that can assist in locating individuals. Some of these services may charge a fee, but they can provide useful information based on public records. Examples of such services include Whitepages, BeenVerified, and Intelius. Be sure to select a reputable service to protect your investment.

Network with Neighbors

If you still have a relationship with the tenant's neighbors or the community, consider asking if they have seen or heard from the tenant. They may have noticed the tenant moving or have other information that can help you locate them. Approach this method with respect for privacy and community norms.

Hire a Licensed Private Investigator

To enhance your search, consider hiring a licensed private investigator. These professionals have access to more comprehensive resources and can delve deeper into the tenant's financial and legal history. They can also provide a detailed report and help you recoup any costs associated with the investigation.

Check Property and Taxes

If the tenant is still in the county, you can visit the county assessor's website and look for any properties the tenant owns, such as cars or real estate. The website should provide the tenant's name, current address, and any property owned. Similarly, the county tax collector's website can also be used to search for the tenant's information.

For tenants who have moved to another state, you can conduct the same search on the assessor and tax collector websites in their new county to find their current address and tax status.

Note: While these methods can be effective, it is important to verify your actions with local laws and regulations. Some of the methods mentioned, such as accessing private property records, may be subject to legal restrictions. Ensure that you acting within the bounds of the law and that you respect the privacy of the individual.

Lastly, if you decide to take legal action to recover the debt, consult a lawyer who can provide you with additional resources and advice on how to locate the tenant and proceed legally.