Can I be evicted in Kentucky without receiving a written notice?

No. Kentucky law requires landlords to serve a written 7-day or 30-day notice before filing for eviction in most cases.

Can my landlord use email or text for an eviction notice?

Not usually. Notices must typically be delivered in person or posted at your residence according to Kentucky law.

What should I do if I receive a 7-day notice but can't pay the rent?

Contact your landlord immediately and try to work out a payment plan, or seek rental assistance from local agencies.

Do all cities in Kentucky follow the same eviction notice rules?

Most cities follow the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, but some regions may have small differences. Check with your local court.

Is there an official statewide eviction notice form in Kentucky?

Not at this time. Forms are usually obtained from your local district court or official Kentucky Court of Justice website.

Understanding Kentucky’s 30-Day and 7-Day Eviction Notices

Evictions & Lease Violations Kentucky published: June 21, 2025

If you’re renting a home in Kentucky, understanding the notices your landlord must give before an eviction is vital. State law sets out strict requirements for how much warning you get if your landlord wants you to leave—usually through a 7-day or 30-day notice. Knowing the difference, and what to do if you receive one, can help you make informed decisions and protect your rights under Kentucky law.

What Is an Eviction Notice in Kentucky?

An eviction notice is a written document your landlord serves to notify you to fix a lease violation or vacate the property. In Kentucky, there are several types, but the most common are the 7-day notice (for nonpayment of rent) and the 30-day notice (for no-cause or end of periodic tenancy). These notices are required steps before a landlord can start a formal eviction lawsuit.

7-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate

This notice applies when a renter has failed to pay rent on time. Under Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) § 383.660(2), landlords must give you at least 7 days’ written notice demanding payment or requiring that you move out if you have not paid rent when due.

When it’s used: If rent is overdue.
What it means: You have 7 days to either pay all the rent due or leave the rental unit.
If you pay within 7 days: Your landlord cannot proceed with eviction for nonpayment (unless you become late again).

Official Form: 7-Day Notice to Pay or Quit

Kentucky does not provide a universal statewide form, but check with your local District Court or city/county housing resources for official templates. Always confirm the form is up to date before use.

Practical example: If your rent is due on the 1st and unpaid, your landlord can serve you a 7-day notice on the 2nd. You must pay or vacate by the 9th.
How to respond: Pay the full rent owed or move out before the deadline to avoid an eviction filing.

30-Day Notice to Vacate

This notice is commonly used in month-to-month tenancies, or when your landlord wants you to move out for reasons other than not paying rent (like ending your lease or other no-cause terminations). According to KRS § 383.695, either the landlord or tenant can end a month-to-month tenancy with 30 days’ written notice.

When it’s used: Ending a month-to-month lease without cause or when your lease agreement allows for termination with 30 days’ notice.
What it means: You have 30 days from the date you receive the notice to move out.

Official Form: 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy

While Kentucky law spells out the requirements, a specific statewide form may not be provided. Sample forms are often available from your local District Court’s website or office. Always use forms provided at your county courthouse or the Kentucky Court of Justice District Court for accuracy.

Practical example: If your landlord serves you a 30-day notice on June 5, you must move out by July 5.
How to respond: Plan your move or negotiate with your landlord as needed.

What Happens After the Notice Period?

If you do not pay, fix the problem, or move out by the end of the notice period, your landlord can file an eviction lawsuit (called a Forcible Detainer Action) in your local District Court. You will receive a court summons with a hearing date where both sides can present evidence and arguments.

If the court rules for the landlord, you may have a short period (usually 7 days) to move out before a sheriff or constable is sent to remove you.

Always keep copies of any notices or documents for your records. Responding promptly may give you more options—such as negotiating payment plans or requesting more time to move.

Which Tribunal or Authority Handles Evictions?

In Kentucky, District Court in the county where the property is located handles eviction cases (Forcible Detainer Actions). Both landlords and tenants can access the court’s official forms and resources.

Summary: Key Differences Between 7-Day and 30-Day Notices

7-Day Notice: Used for nonpayment of rent. You can fix the issue by paying rent within 7 days.
30-Day Notice: Usually used to end a month-to-month tenancy without a specific lease violation. You are not required to fix an issue—just vacate by the deadline.

Be aware of the notice type and your options for responding. Kentucky's tenant laws offer you time to act and defend your rights if you face eviction—and resources are available for support.

FAQ: Kentucky Eviction Notices

Can I be evicted in Kentucky without receiving a written notice?
No. Kentucky law requires landlords to serve a written 7-day or 30-day notice before filing for eviction in most cases.
Can my landlord use email or text for an eviction notice?
Not usually. Notices must typically be delivered in person or posted at your residence according to Kentucky law. Check lease details or ask your court for confirmation.
What should I do if I receive a 7-day notice but can't pay the rent?
Contact your landlord immediately. Try to work out a payment plan or seek rental assistance from local agencies.
Do all cities in Kentucky follow the same eviction notice rules?
Most cities follow the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), but some smaller towns or counties may have variations. Always check with your local district court for specifics.
Is there an official statewide eviction notice form in Kentucky?
Not at this time. Forms are usually available from your local district court. Use official government sources to find the correct documents.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kentucky District Court Locator – Find your local court for eviction filings and forms.
Kentucky Court of Justice Legal Forms – Access eviction and housing forms.
Kentucky Housing Corporation – Rental Assistance
Kentucky Legal Aid – Free or low-cost legal help for tenants facing eviction.
To report discrimination or unsafe living conditions, contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Kentucky.

See Kentucky Revised Statutes: Chapter 383 – Landlord and Tenant.
Find Kentucky Court resources: District Court Information.
View legal forms: Official Forms – Kentucky Court of Justice.