Which of the following actions can a landlord take if a tenant fails to pay rent?

A landlord has several legal options when a tenant fails to pay rent, and filing for eviction is one of the most common and formal steps. Eviction is a legal process that allows landlords to remove tenants from their property due to a breach of lease terms, such as non-payment of rent. This process typically involves notifying the tenant of the lease violation and providing them with an opportunity to remedy the situation (like paying back rent), followed by a court proceeding if the issue is not resolved.

This approach is essential because it adheres to legal protocols and protects the landlord's rights while ensuring the tenant's due process. Other actions, such as changing the locks or seizing personal belongings, may not only be illegal but could also subject landlords to liability for unlawful eviction or personal property theft.

Requiring payment in cash only without prior agreement can also be problematic, as it might not comply with the terms of the lease or local rental laws. Therefore, navigating the situation through the legal eviction process is a structured and lawful way for a landlord to address non-payment issues.