Maine Real Estate License Practice Exam

If a tenant does not respond to a properly delivered eviction notice, what action should the landlord take next?

1. Call the police

2. File a forcible entry and detainer action

3. Send a lawyer for a second notice

4. Move the tenant's possessions to storage

The correct answer is: File a forcible entry and detainer action

When a tenant does not respond to a properly delivered eviction notice, the appropriate action for the landlord to take is to file a forcible entry and detainer action. This legal process allows the landlord to seek the court's assistance in evicting the tenant. It is a critical step that formalizes the eviction process according to the laws governing landlord-tenant relationships. In many jurisdictions, an eviction notice alone does not grant the landlord the right to remove a tenant or their belongings; the landlord must first obtain a court order. Filing this action provides the tenant with an opportunity to respond and presents the case before a judge, ensuring that the proceedings follow legal due process. The other options do not align with proper legal procedures. Calling the police may not be appropriate since eviction is a civil matter and police typically do not intervene until a court order is in place. Sending a lawyer for a second notice could complicate matters unnecessarily, as the original notice has already been given and legal proceedings should follow. Additionally, moving the tenant's possessions to storage could be considered illegal eviction or self-help eviction, which is not permitted without a court order, as it may lead to further legal repercussions for the landlord.