How must a tenancy be terminated under Kentucky law?

If there is no lease, or if the lease does not set out a notice period, either party can terminate the tenancy by giving 30 days written notice (for a month-to-month tenancy) or 7 days written notice (for a week-to-week tenancy). If the lease is for a specified term, the lease cannot be terminated until the expiry of the term, unless the parties come to an agreement.

On what grounds can a landlord evict a tenant in Kentucky?

Common grounds for eviction are (i) failure to pay rent on time, (ii) violation of a provision of the lease or of the landlord's rules, (iii) a tenant failing to give up possession after termination of the agreement. If, after receiving proper notice from the landlord, the tenant fails to cure the default, the landlord can proceed with an eviction action in court. The landlord cannot physically remove a tenant or their belongings without a court order.

A landlord can also seek a distress warrant or attachment for rent against the personal property of a tenant.

The landlord cannot lock out the tenant, remove property, or cut off the tenant's water, gas, or electricity, without first going through the court procedure and getting an eviction order. The tenant cannot legally be forced out unless a court officer comes to the premises.

The foregoing summary is provided for information purposes only and is not to be considered legal or business advice. The information may not be complete, accurate or applicable for any particular situation and should not be relied upon.

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