This bill amends the eviction procedures outlined in the Code of West Virginia, specifically sections 55-3A-1 and 55-3B-4. It mandates that a receipt of return of service or return receipt must be filed with the court upon the filing of an eviction petition. Additionally, the bill requires that a hearing be scheduled within five to ten judicial days after the petition is filed. Tenants are granted the right to file and serve a written defense to the eviction petition within five days of receiving notice of the petition.

The bill also makes several clarifications regarding the eviction process for both residential rental properties and factory-built home sites. It specifies that the petitioner must provide a brief description of the property and the reasons for eviction, which may include non-payment of rent or other breaches of lease agreements. The language has been updated to ensure consistency and clarity in the legal process, including the requirement for the notice to inform tenants of their rights to respond to the eviction petition. Overall, the bill aims to streamline and clarify the eviction process in West Virginia.

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