Alabama Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
Ala. Code §35-9A-421 — Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: 7-Day Pay or Quit
- Lease violation: 14-Day Cure or Quit
- Unconditional: 7-Day Unconditional Quit
- End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate
Available Defenses
- Habitability (Ala. Code §35-9A-204)
- Retaliation (Ala. Code §35-9A-501)
- Procedural defects
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
YES — Tenant has 7 days to pay past-due rent before eviction can proceed for nonpayment
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (Ala. Code §35-9A-427)
Court & Filing
District Court
Landlord must file unlawful detainer action in district court after notice period expires
Complaints: Alabama Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
Additional Protections
- Landlord must follow court eviction process — self-help eviction (lockouts, utility shutoffs) is illegal
- Tenant has right to cure nonpayment within 7-day notice period
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Alabama Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in Alabama?
In Alabama, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: 7-Day Pay or Quit; Lease violation: 14-Day Cure or Quit; Unconditional: 7-Day Unconditional Quit; End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate. Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in Alabama?
Available defenses in Alabama include: Habitability (Ala. Code §35-9A-204), Retaliation (Ala. Code §35-9A-501), Procedural defects, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does Alabama require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
Yes. Tenant has 7 days to pay past-due rent before eviction can proceed for nonpayment
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Alabama?
No. Under Ala. Code §35-9A-427, self-help eviction is prohibited in Alabama. Your landlord must file in District Court and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in Alabama?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite Ala. Code §35-9A-421, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Alabama?
File complaints with the Alabama Attorney General Consumer Protection Division and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.