How to Remove an Eviction from Your Record in North Carolina (NC)
An eviction on your record in North Carolina can make it difficult to rent a new home, obtain financing, or even pass a background check.
But the good news is: you have legal options.
Whatever the case – your case was dismissed, the landlord won, or you settled – there are clear ways to move forward and shield your future.
This comprehensive guide explains the steps you should take to remove, seal, or otherwise minimize the impact of an eviction in North Carolina so you can get your housing back.
Can an Eviction Be Removed from Your Record in North Carolina?
Yes, but it depends on the outcome of the case.
If the eviction was dismissed, resolved in your favor, or filed in error, you may be able to expunge or seal it.
You still have options if there was a judgment against you: you can appeal, vacate the judgment, or negotiate a stipulated dismissal.
The Importance of Removing an Eviction from Your Record
- Improves chances of housing and rental applications
- Safeguards your credit and background screening
- Prevents employment rejections due to housing history
- Let you start fresh and gain more control over your finances
Even one eviction on your record can follow you for years.
Proactive removal is key to moving forward.
How to Remove an Eviction from Your Record in North Carolina
Step 1: Access and Review Your Eviction Record
Begin by understanding exactly what’s on your record.
Check:
- Public court records at NC Court System’s Online Services
- Credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com
- Rental screening databases like CoreLogic, SafeRent or TransUnion SmartMove
Knowing your case outcome will determine what actions you can take.
Step 2: Understand the Outcome of Your Case
If the case was dismissed or ruled in your favour:
You may ask the court to expunge or redact the record.
If there’s a judgment against you:
You may need to file a Motion to Set Aside (Rule 60) or negotiate a stipulated dismissal with the landlord.
In NC, even a dismissed case can remain visible unless you take steps to remove it.
Step 3: File a Motion to Expunge or Redact the Record (If Eligible)
Civil cases like evictions in North Carolina are not automatically expunged but there are circumstances in which you may be able to get the record removed.
You may qualify if:
- The eviction was dismissed
- You won the case
- It was filed in error or with procedural issues
How to File:
- To file a Motion to Seal or Redact Public Record with the Clerk of Court
- Attach documentation proving dismissal or error
- Include a statement of hardship showing how the public record is affecting you
More information can be found at NC Legal Aid – Housing Help.
Step 4: File a Motion to Set Aside Judgment (If You Lost the Case)
If the court ruled against you and you feel the decision was unfair or procedurally wrong, you can file a Motion for Relief from Judgment under Rule 60(b).
Common reasons:
- You weren’t properly notified
- You were unable to attend the hearing
- You’ve since settled or resolved the issue with the landlord
- The landlord misrepresented facts in court
This must typically be filed within 1 year of the judgment—so act fast.
Reference: NC General Statutes § 1A-1, Rule 60(b)
Step 5: Negotiate a Stipulated Dismissal or Record Correction
In some cases, the best way is to try and sort it out with your landlord directly:
Steps to take:
- Reach a settlement (e.g., paying rent, moving out voluntarily)
- Request that the landlord file a stipulated dismissal with the court
- The dismissal can be used to seek the record redaction
Even though a judgment was entered, the landlord may agree to vacate it if the parties to the dispute have agreed to resolve the same.
Step 6: Dispute Records with Credit and Tenant Screening Agencies
If your eviction is recorded on other companies’ reports, you can:
File a complaint or have the following removed from:
- Credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion)
- Tenant screening companies (CoreLogic, RentGrow, etc.)
How to dispute:
- A copy of your court record is provided to prove dismissal or satisfaction
- A formal dispute letter is sent
- Then, the agency will investigate the matter (usually within 30 days)
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Rental Background Check Rights
How to Improve Your Rental Chances with an Eviction on Record
Even though the eviction can’t be erased right away, you can improve your rental chances:
Practical Tips:
- Your references could include past landlords or employers
- Be truthful and provide a written account
- Income and employment stability evidence must be provided
- You can provide more deposit or rent for several months in advance
- In case of need, you can use a co-signer with good credit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you expunge an eviction in North Carolina?
Although North Carolina has no provision for the expungement of eviction, one can apply to seal, expunge or vacate the records under the civil procedure if the requirements are met.
How long does an eviction stay on your record in NC?
- Court record: Unless removed, the record will be kept forever
- Credit report: 7 years
- Tenant screening databases: 3–7 years, sometimes longer
What if the landlord dropped the case?
If your case was dismissed, you can file a motion to seal or expunge the eviction from the public record.
Can I remove an eviction if I paid what I owed?
Yes. If you have paid off the debt, you may be able to get a stipulated dismissal or you may be able to file a motion to set aside the judgment.
Can TPS Assist Me in Getting an Eviction Off My Record in North Carolina?
Absolutely.
At TPS, we assist North Carolina tenants in the following ways:
- Filing motions to vacate or seal the eviction records in court
- Represent the tenant in negotiations with the landlord to agree on dismissal of the case
- Assistance with the preparation of the court hearing and documentation
- Restore your rental profile and credit confidence
Don’t Let an Eviction Define Your Future—Take Action Now
Eviction does not necessarily mean that you cannot continue with your housing search in North Carolina.
There are specific legal measures and effective approaches that can help you erase or minimize the effects of an eviction in North Carolina.
There are things you can do:
You can file a motion, ask for the records to be redacted, or attempt to reason with your landlord.
At TPS, we will be glad to accompany you on the journey.