THE LANDLORD ADVOCACY PROJECT

Implications of Eviction on Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy

As a homeowner landlord, you should know the potential implications of eviction cases on your homeowner's insurance policy. In some instances, the Discovery process may reveal that tenants have filed personal injury claims, even if these claims are merely alleged. This can leave landlords vulnerable, highlighting the importance of understanding the extent of coverage your insurance policy provides. By gaining insight into what your insurance policy can cover, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your property. Be prepared to navigate any unexpected situations during the eviction process.

We need volunteers at the Lawyer for the Day clinics representing low-income landlords. Select your Housing court below and sign up today!

Disabled Landlord Wins $17,000 Battle Against Abusive Tenant

Ben*, a 60-year-old disabled landlord, has been subjected to verbal abuse and physical assault by his tenant, who is also his brother. Despite the tenant's non-payment of rent and violent behavior, Ben's attempts to evict him were dismissed due to a mistiming of the Notice to Quit. This unfair situation prompted a tenant-centric legal aid organization to refer Ben to VLP for assistance. We at VLP are committed to helping landlords like Ben who face unjust treatment from their tenants and will work tirelessly to ensure justice is served. Ben's case, a testament to perseverance and advocacy, finally saw justice after a year-long battle. Despite delays and obstacles, VLP's Landlord team secured a $17,000 victory for Ben, showcasing our unwavering commitment to fighting for small landlords' rights. On April 4, 2024, Ben's tenant was removed from the premises after a highly overdue execution was issued.  Although his tenant did leave behind a boat, we applaud the Landlord team for their unwavering commitment to getting Ben the justice he deserved.

*Client's name is fictitious to protect his privacy. 

Southeast Housing Court New In-person Lawyer for the Day Now Accepting Volunteers

The Southeast Housing Court has initiated their in-person Lawyer for the Day, with many private attorneys ready to help pro se landlords in their Courts for the next three months. If you want to volunteer and support Landlords, consider signing up for a session in New Bedford, Fall River, or virtually. Tap the button below to sign up!

Pro Bono Attorney Allison Myers Lights Up Lawyer for the Day  

We are thrilled to spotlight Attorney Allison Myers, a retiree with a background in the financial services industry who has seamlessly transitioned into the legal world. Through her dedication and enthusiasm, Allison is making an impact at the Landlord Lawyer for the Day clinic at the Brockton Housing Court. Her generosity knows no bounds as she volunteers, connects with clients, mentors law students, and simplifies complex legal issues for all who come to the table. Allison's positive attitude and legal acumen have elevated our landlord team's ability to assist at in-person clinics. We are grateful to have Attorney Allison Myers on board, spreading joy and legal expertise wherever she goes.

Meet Cynthia Bell, VLP’s Newest Board Addition 

We welcome Cynthia Bell, the newest addition to VLP's board of directors! As a former landlord-client turned board member, Cynthia brings our team a unique and valuable perspective. With her commitment to civil service, visionary leadership, and hands-on experience in pastoral care and counseling, Cynthia will significantly impact our organization. Her impressive academic achievements, including a master's degree from Yale University School of Public Health and Harvard Divinity School, demonstrate her dedication to excellence. But Cynthia's passion extends beyond the classroom - she co-founded the human rights group My Sister's Keepers and spent five years in southern Sudan, where she helped redeem over 1,200 Southern Sudanese slaves. As a licensed and ordained minister, Cynthia's spiritual caregiving skills will be invaluable to VLP. We are excited to have her on board! 

Championing Small Landlords: A Win-Win Partnership

The Landlord Advocacy Project has joined forces with the Small Property Owners Association (SPOA) to support small low-income homeowner landlords. SPOA's Vice President, Amir Shahsavri brings a personal understanding as he is a small property homeowner himself. Inspired by his mother's values of responsible property ownership, Amir is dedicated to ensuring that landlords provide safe and well-maintained housing for their tenants. Amir's approach to property management is fostering positive relationships with tenants and even helping them on their path to homeownership. Elected to the board in 2020, he helps run and moderates the SPOA Housing Policy Series, a recurrent program addressing housing issues with input from property owners, real estate experts, elected officials, people running for office, and housing advocates. As SPOA champions small business owners, the organization continues to advocate for fair housing solutions, housing affordability, and a level playing field for both tenants and owners. Together, the Landlord Advocacy Project and SPOA aim to empower low-income homeowner landlords and enhance the quality of housing for tenants in our community. 

Are you a Small Homeowner Landlord?

Want to Get Involved with the Landlord Project?

If you are a 2-3 family owner-occupied homeowner who needs legal assistance or help applying for rental, mortgage or utility assistance, click here to see if you qualify to speak with a lawyer. Lawyers from VLP can help you apply for assistance, completely free.

If you are a lawyer, law student, paralegal, or community member interested in volunteering to help our small landlords, click below to see volunteer opportunities.

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