Understanding Sealing: The settlement agreement included sealing, but I didn’t do my part – will it be on my record?

During an eviction case, a landlord and tenant can agree to seal the case in a settlement agreement.

There are two main possibilities: 

Possibility 1:

Usually, the landlord agrees to seal the case after the tenant moves out or makes a rent payment. 

If the tenant doesn’t do their part, then the case will not be sealed. It will remain on the public record. 

Possibility 2:

Sometimes, the landlord may agree to seal the case before the tenant moves out or makes a payment. 


The settlement agreement might have language that the landlord can ask the judge to unseal the case if the tenant does not do their part. 


If the tenant doesn’t do their part, then the landlord can ask the judge to unseal the case. Then, the eviction will be public again. 

The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.

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