Sealing an Eviction Record in Utah: Step-by-Step Guide

If you have faced an eviction in Utah, it can show up on your background checks, making it more difficult to rent a new apartment or home. The good news is that Utah law allows renters to request that an eviction record be sealed in certain situations. This guide explains the process, your eligibility, which forms you need, and where to get support if you’re ready to take this important step.

Understanding Eviction Records in Utah

When a court orders an eviction (also called an "unlawful detainer"), the record typically becomes public. Potential landlords, employers, and others can see this in background checks. Sealing your eviction record means making it inaccessible to the public—which can greatly improve your housing options.

Who Can Seal an Eviction Record in Utah?

Utah law allows for the sealing of eviction records if:

• The case was dismissed or ruled in your favor; or
• The eviction judgment is at least three years old, and the landlord has been paid in full or agreed to sealing.

Even if you don’t meet these criteria, there may be exceptions for cases of mistaken identity, fraud, or other court errors.

Steps to Seal an Eviction Record

Sealing an eviction record requires following the procedures set by the Utah courts. The process is designed to be accessible, but careful attention to forms and deadlines is important.

Forms You’ll Need

• Motion to Seal Eviction Case (Form 1110XX)
  When to use it: Required to formally request that your eviction record be sealed. For example, if your eviction case was dismissed or more than three years have passed since judgment, you would fill out this form and submit it to the court.
  Access Motion to Seal Eviction Case (Utah Courts website)
• Order on Motion to Seal Eviction Case (Form 1120XX)
  When to use it: This is submitted for the judge to officially decide whether to approve the sealing. After you submit your Motion, complete this form so the court can file it in your records.
  Access Order on Motion to Seal (Utah Courts website)

Full instructions, examples, and downloadable forms are found at the Utah Courts Sealing Eviction Records page.

Where to File

Eviction cases in Utah are generally handled by the Utah Justice Courts or District Courts, depending on where your original eviction was filed. Submit your completed forms to the court that processed your eviction.

What Happens After You File?

• The court will review your motion and may schedule a hearing.
• In some cases, the landlord will be notified and given a chance to respond.
• If approved, the judge will sign the order, and your eviction record will be sealed from public view.

The entire process may take several weeks, so follow up with the court clerk if you have questions during the waiting period.

If you're not sure whether your case qualifies for sealing, reach out to courthouse self-help or a local tenant support group—they can review your paperwork and guide you.

Your Rights Under Utah Law

The main law governing these procedures is the Utah Code § 78B-6-810, covering "Sealing of eviction case records." Familiarizing yourself with Utah's Utah Fit Premises Act can also help if you have general questions about landlord-tenant responsibilities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting the wrong forms or incomplete paperwork
• Not checking if your eviction qualifies under Utah’s requirements
• Missing a court-scheduled hearing
• Failing to notify your former landlord if required

FAQ: Sealing Eviction Records in Utah

1. Can any eviction record be sealed in Utah?
   Not all eviction records are eligible for sealing. Utah law allows sealing if your case was dismissed, you won the case, or if three years have passed since the judgment and any required payments are complete.
2. How long does it take to seal an eviction record in Utah?
   The process usually takes several weeks, depending on the court's schedule and whether a hearing is required.
3. Do I need a lawyer to seal my eviction record?
   No, you can file the forms yourself, but it may help to seek advice from tenant advocacy services or legal aid if you have questions or complex circumstances.
4. Will a sealed eviction record appear on background checks?
   Once sealed, your eviction record is no longer available to the public or shown in most background checks. Courts and some government agencies may still access sealed records in limited situations.
5. Where can I get help with the forms?
   Visit the Utah Courts Sealing Eviction Records page or contact a local legal aid office for free help with paperwork.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Utah allows renters to seal eviction records in specific situations, giving you a chance for a fresh start.
• Carefully follow court instructions and use the correct official forms to avoid delays.
• Check your eligibility before investing time or fees in the process.

Taking charge of your eviction record can help open new doors and improve your rental prospects in Utah.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah Courts: Sealing Eviction Records — Instructions, forms, and eligibility details
• Utah State Courts Self-Help Center — Free phone and online support for court forms and processes
• Utah Legal Services — Statewide nonprofit legal aid for renters
• Utah Fit Premises Act — Full landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities

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1. Utah Courts Sealing Eviction Records Official Process & Forms
2. Utah Code § 78B-6-810 (Sealing Eviction Records)
3. Utah Fit Premises Act (Utah landlord-tenant law)
4. Utah Justice Courts Information

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