Rebuilding After an Eviction

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An eviction can feel like a significant setback, but with the right steps and resources, it’s possible to rebuild and secure stable housing. This guide provides practical strategies, resources in Columbia, SC, and tips to help you recover and move forward after an eviction.


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Moving Forward: While an eviction can feel like a significant roadblock, it doesn’t have to define your future. By taking proactive steps, utilizing local resources, and staying committed to rebuilding your stability, you can secure a safe and stable place to call home. Use the tools and programs available to turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth and resilience.

General Steps to Rebuild After Eviction 

Repair Your Rental History
Pay any outstanding debts to former landlords and request a letter of resolution.

Look for Flexible Housing Options
Some landlords or property managers are willing to rent to individuals with an eviction history, especially if there are mitigating circumstances.

Strengthen Your Application
Provide strong references, proof of stable income, or a higher security deposit to reassure potential landlords.
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Access Transitional Housing
If immediate housing is needed, consider short-term housing programs offered by local nonprofits.

Steps to Rebuild After an Eviction

  1. Settle Outstanding Debts
    1. Why It Matters: Unpaid rent or damages from a previous eviction can harm your credit score and rental history.
    2. Action Steps:
      1. Contact your former landlord to arrange a payment plan or settle debts.
      2. Request a letter from the landlord stating the debt has been resolved.
  2. Review and Repair Your Credit
    1. Why It Matters: Landlords often review credit reports during the application process.
    2. Action Steps:
      1. Obtain a free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com.
      2. Dispute any inaccuracies and work to improve your credit score by paying off debts and maintaining consistent payments.​
  1. Strengthen Your Rental Application
    • Why It Matters: A strong application can help overcome the challenges of an eviction on your record.
    • Action Steps:
      • Gather references from employers, previous landlords (if possible), or community leaders.
      • Demonstrate stable income through pay stubs or bank statements.
      • Offer a larger security deposit if feasible or consider co-signers.
  2. Explore Flexible Housing Options
    • Why It Matters: Some landlords specialize in renting to individuals with prior evictions.
    • Action Steps:
      • Look for private landlords who may not conduct credit checks.
      • Search for properties with lenient application processes.
  3. Seek Transitional or Supportive Housing
    • Why It Matters: These programs provide temporary housing while you rebuild your rental history.
    • Action Steps:
      • Apply for transitional housing programs or emergency shelters in Columbia.
      • Utilize supportive housing services designed for low-income individuals or families.

Tips for Future Renting

Tips for Future Renting
  1. Be Honest About Your History
    Transparency can build trust with potential landlords. Explain the circumstances of the eviction and steps you’ve taken to address the issue.
  2. Start with Short-Term Leases
    Look for month-to-month or short-term rental agreements to prove your reliability as a tenant.
  3. Work with Rental Specialists
    Agencies and nonprofits in Columbia often assist individuals with eviction histories in finding suitable housing.
  4. Stay Consistent with Payments
    Establish a history of on-time rent payments to improve your rental record.
  5. Educate Yourself on Tenant Rights
    ​Knowing your rights and responsibilities can help you avoid future conflicts with landlords.

Local Resources in Columbia, SC 

VA Phone Number: 803-776-4000
One80 Place: (803) 726-6348
Alston Wilkes Society:  (803) 799-8464
1-877-4AID VET (1-877-424-3838)
1-888-346-5592
South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs 
​South Carolina Coalition 
The South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs (SCDVA) works to connect veterans with resources to prevent homelessness and eviction. Through partnerships with organizations like Combined Arms (SC Coalition), SCDVA helps veterans access housing assistance, legal aid, and supportive services. Veterans facing eviction can benefit from programs like HUD-VASH and Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), both designed to provide financial support, case management, and housing solutions.
*Remember* If you enrolled in our SCDVA Housing Program at Fast Forward, you have a Combined Arms Account that can link you to services in the area. Even if you've moved out of Columbia.