Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

What defines the legal ability of a landlord to evict a tenant?

1. Failure to pay rent

2. Property ownership

3. Landlord discretion

4. Legal properly furnished notice

The correct answer is: Legal properly furnished notice

The legal ability of a landlord to evict a tenant is fundamentally defined by the requirement for a legally proper furnished notice. This notice is a formal communication that informs the tenant of the landlord's intention to terminate the lease and the grounds for eviction. In most jurisdictions, landlords are legally obligated to provide this notice as part of the eviction process, and it must comply with local laws regarding content, timing, and delivery method. For instance, if a landlord attempts to evict a tenant without providing this notice, they may be unable to legally proceed with the eviction, regardless of the underlying reasons. The notice effectively allows the tenant an opportunity to remedy the situation if applicable, or to prepare for their departure. While failure to pay rent is a common and valid reason for eviction, it is the proper handling of the eviction process—including providing notice—that ultimately defines the landlord's legal capability to carry out that eviction. Property ownership alone does not grant the right to evict; there are legal procedures to follow regardless of ownership status. Landlord discretion is also not a legal basis for eviction; landlords must adhere to specific legal requirements, including proper notification, to enforce eviction effectively.