Santa Clara County extends eviction moratorium

Santana Row in West San Jose

With the end of May approaching, many renters and business owners are running into another rent deadline.

The loss of income due to the economic havoc caused by COVID-19 is harming tens of thousands across the region. The stress rises as the beginning of the month looms, when landlords come calling for due rent.

To provide relief to rent payers, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors passed an eviction moratorium in March. On Tuesday, the Board extended that moratorium until August 31, with a caveat. California Governor Gavin Newsom suspended state law around evictions through May 31, but has yet to extend that order. The county board may have to meet again next week to update their extension if Newsom does not act.

“Given the current health crisis, we’re obliged to extend the temporary moratorium if only to ensure folks can continue to shelter in place,” said Supervisor Joe Simitian.

Simitian also asked county staff to provide a report on potentially extending the repayment period for back rent. That is currently set for 120 days.

“The goal of the moratorium on evictions is to ensure people can shelter in place, and to provide some measure of certainty and security,” Simitian added.

To avoid eviction actions, renters must demonstrate documentation of substantial loss due to the COVID-19 crisis.

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