The bill amends sections 55-3A-1 and 55-3B-4 of the Code of West Virginia to enhance the eviction process for residential rental properties and factory-built home sites. Key provisions include the requirement for the petitioner to file a receipt of return of service or return receipt with the court, ensuring that the tenant is properly notified of the eviction proceedings. Additionally, the bill mandates that a hearing be scheduled within five to ten judicial days after the filing of the eviction petition. Tenants are granted the right to file and serve a written defense to the eviction petition within five days of receiving notice.

The bill also clarifies the conditions under which a tenant may be evicted, specifying that a tenant may be wrongfully occupying the property if they are holding over after proper notice of termination or if the landlord has good cause for eviction. The language has been updated to ensure that the process is clear and that tenants are adequately informed of their rights and the timeline for responding to eviction notices. Overall, the bill aims to streamline eviction proceedings while providing protections for tenants.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 55-3A-1, 55-3B-4
Committee Substitute: 55-3A-1, 55-3B-4