Kansas Renters: COVID-19 Eviction Protections & Your Rights

If you're a renter in Kansas, understanding your rights around eviction—especially those related to COVID-19—is crucial. Although many pandemic protections have expired, some programs, legal rights, and resources may still help if you’re facing eviction or housing instability in 2024. This article explains what COVID-19 eviction protections are still in effect, how Kansas law applies, and practical steps for renters in need of support.

What COVID-19 Eviction Protections Remain in Kansas?

While federal eviction moratoriums have ended, some renters may still have options or defenses if they are facing eviction due to COVID-19-related hardship. In Kansas, there are no statewide eviction bans currently in effect. However, you may qualify for resources or programs if you fell behind on rent because of the pandemic.

• Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA): The main COVID-19 financial relief program closed in 2022, but renters in need can still check for any local city or county-based assistance options. Learn more at the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation.
• Court-Based Eviction Diversion: Some Kansas counties continue to offer eviction diversion programs or mediation for tenants and landlords aiming to avoid court judgments. See Kansas Judicial Branch eviction resources.
• Protections for Renters with Pending Assistance Applications: If you applied for rental assistance and are awaiting a decision, inform your landlord and the court. Judges may delay cases if proof is provided.

It's important to contact local agencies and legal aid organizations promptly, as timelines for eviction can be short.

The Eviction Process in Kansas

If your landlord wishes to evict you, they must follow Kansas law, which requires specific notices to be served—especially in the case of nonpayment of rent or lease violations. The main legislation governing these rights is the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1].

Required Eviction Notice Forms

• 3-Day Notice to Quit (Nonpayment of Rent): If you are behind on rent, your landlord must serve you a 3-Day Notice demanding payment or vacating the property.
  
  How it works: For example, if you missed rent and receive this notice, you have three days (not counting the day you receive it, weekends, or holidays) to pay in full or move out.
  Official 3-Day Notice to Vacate Form (DC105)
• 14/30-Day Notice to Cure or Vacate (Other Lease Violations): For violations other than nonpayment, a landlord may use this notice, giving you time to correct the issue or vacate.
  See sample Kansas eviction notices from Kansas Legal Services (official notice wording—verify current requirements with the court).

Only after the legal notice period can your landlord file an eviction case in district court.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice

Acting quickly is vital. Here are the main steps you should follow if you receive an eviction-related notice:

• Read the notice carefully. Identify why you’re being asked to leave and by what deadline.
• Gather documentation, such as proof of rental assistance applications, hardship due to COVID-19, or any communications with your landlord.
• Respond in writing to your landlord if you have applied for rent assistance or need more time.
• If the notice period expires and a court case is filed, you will receive a summons. Attend all court dates and bring documentation.
• Seek advice from Kansas Legal Services or a tenant advocacy organization.

Key Kansas Tribunals and Agencies

• Kansas Housing Resources Corporation: Rental assistance and COVID-19 relief guidance.
• Kansas Judicial Branch: Handles eviction proceedings in district courts.

Residential tenancy disputes in Kansas are overseen by the state’s district courts, not a dedicated tenancy tribunal. Use your local county district court for filings and hearings. Find your Kansas district court here.

Understanding the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

This law sets out the basic rights and responsibilities for Kansas renters and landlords. It details notice periods, eviction procedures, and protections against illegal lockouts. Updated reading of the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is recommended to ensure you’re aware of your current rights.

FAQ: Kansas Renters & COVID-19 Eviction Support

1. Are any COVID-19 eviction bans still in effect in Kansas?
   No statewide eviction moratoriums remain active, but local programs may still offer assistance.
2. What if my rental assistance application is still pending?
   Notify your landlord and the court. Judges may grant delays if you show proof of a pending application.
3. Can my landlord evict me for nonpayment related to COVID-19 job loss?
   Yes, unless you have specific protections or pending assistance—contact legal aid for options.
4. Where do I file a response if I get a court summons?
   File your response at your local Kansas district court. Bring all supporting documents.
5. What forms do I need if I receive an eviction notice?
   Use the 3-Day Notice to Vacate Form (DC105) for nonpayment and consult sample forms for other violations.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Eviction Support in Kansas

• Kansas no longer has an active statewide COVID-19 eviction ban, but options may exist if you’re in financial trouble due to the pandemic.
• Always respond promptly to eviction notices and attend court dates with documentation.
• Use official resources like the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation and Kansas Judicial Branch for forms, filing, and assistance.

Timely action and clear communication are your best tools for navigating eviction threats—help is available!

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Housing Resources Corporation – Emergency Rental Assistance
• Kansas Judicial Branch – Court Forms and Eviction Information
• Kansas Legal Services – Free Legal Aid for Renters
• Find Your Kansas District Court

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1. Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (K.S.A. 58-2540 et seq.)
2. 3-Day Notice to Vacate: Kansas District Court Form DC105
3. Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance Program
4. Kansas District Courts Directory

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