Oregonians still have some tenant protections as national eviction ban expires

PORTLAND, Ore. — With the national eviction ban and the Oregon moratorium now expired, experts are worried about people getting pushed out of their homes.

The federal eviction moratorium was put in place last year to help people stay in their homes through the coronavirus pandemic.

Researchers at Portland State University estimate that more that 125,000 people are at risk for eviction in Oregon.

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According to the U.S. Census Data, more than 3.5 million people say they are facing eviction, and 7 million people say they are behind on rent.

Now, experts are worried we could be facing a massive housing crisis.

Oregon's eviction moratorium expired at the end of June, and tenants have until 2022 to pay off back rent. This is called the "safe harbor period."

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Renters are also protected from eviction for an additional 60 days, just as long as they show that they applied for rent assistance. In Multnomah County, that grace period now extends to 90 days.

The 60-day period starts when you provide documentation to your landlord that you have applied for assistance.

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The Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program is urging renters to research and know their rights as a tenant.

They recommend documenting any notices you get from your landlord and write down the dates.

Meanwhile in Washington, Governor Jay Inslee extended the state's moratorium until Sept. 30.