SecondChanceInfosecondchanceinfo.com

Eviction-Friendly Apartments in Durham, NC

Last updated:

Renting After an Eviction in Durham

Durham's rental market has grown alongside the Research Triangle's booming economy, but affordable options still exist, especially in neighborhoods outside the downtown core. The city has an active tenant rights community and several nonprofit organizations dedicated to housing access. Private landlords in East Durham, South Durham, and surrounding areas provide the best opportunities for renters with eviction histories.

North Carolina Eviction Record Laws

Eviction Record Sealing
Not available. North Carolina does not have a statewide eviction record sealing law. Eviction filings remain on Durham County court records.
Screening Lookback Period
Most Durham landlords review eviction records for the past 7 years. Private landlords may consider a shorter timeframe.
Tenant Screening Restrictions
North Carolina does not have statewide source-of-income protections. Durham does not have local tenant screening restriction ordinances, though the city has a Human Relations Commission that investigates fair housing complaints.

Housing Options in Durham After an Eviction

Likelihood indicates how likely each option is to accept applicants with eviction records.

TypeDescriptionLikelihood
Private individual landlordsDurham has many single-family homes and duplexes managed by individual owners, particularly in East Durham and South Durham neighborhoods.high
LIHTC / tax credit apartmentsDurham County has affordable housing developments with income-based eligibility and screening that may weigh eviction history less heavily.moderate
Second-chance housing programsSome Durham property managers partner with local organizations to offer housing to tenants with barriers.moderate
Durham Housing Authority (DHA)DHA manages public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers. Applications are individually assessed, with eviction history considered in context.low
Transitional housingDurham Rescue Mission, Families Moving Forward, and the Durham Community Land Trust provide housing support and transitional programs.moderate
Room rentals and shared housingRoom rentals near Duke University and NC Central are widely available with minimal background screening.high

Strategies for Renting with an Eviction in Durham

  1. 1.

    Target private landlords in East and South Durham

    East Durham, South Durham, and neighborhoods near NC Central University have many privately managed rentals with flexible screening practices.

  2. 2.

    Connect with Durham Housing Authority programs

    DHA and partner organizations run programs that help connect renters with housing barriers to participating landlords.

  3. 3.

    Offer financial incentives

    A larger security deposit or prepaid rent can help convince a landlord to overlook past eviction history.

  4. 4.

    Prepare a strong application

    Compile proof of income, references, and a personal letter explaining your circumstances to present a complete picture.

  5. 5.

    Work with Legal Aid of NC

    Legal Aid of North Carolina can advise on your rights and help if an eviction was improperly filed or if you face housing discrimination.

  6. 6.

    Expand to the broader Triangle

    Consider Hillsborough, Mebane, and Roxboro for more affordable options with flexible landlords outside the Durham city limits.

Local Housing Resources in Durham

Organizations that can help you find housing after an eviction.

Durham Housing Authority

Housing Authority

Manages public housing and administers Housing Choice Vouchers in Durham.

(919) 683-1551website330 E. Main St., Durham, NC 27701

Legal Aid of North Carolina — Durham

Legal Aid

Provides free legal services to low-income Durham County residents facing eviction and housing issues.

(919) 226-0052website

Durham Community Land Trustees

Affordable Housing

Works to provide permanently affordable housing options in Durham for low-income residents.

(919) 490-0063website

211 North Carolina — Durham

Helpline

Dial 211 for referrals to housing assistance, emergency shelter, and community resources in Durham County.

211

Tips for Renting with an Eviction in Durham

  • 1.Check Durham County District Court records to verify what shows on your eviction history.
  • 2.East Durham, South Durham, and areas near NCCU offer the most affordable private rental options.
  • 3.Contact Legal Aid of North Carolina for free legal advice about your eviction situation.
  • 4.Durham's growing tech economy means strong employment options — use steady employment to strengthen your rental applications.
  • 5.Apply during winter months when the university rental cycle slows down.
  • 6.Join Durham housing Facebook groups where private landlords post listings directly.
  • 7.Consider Hillsborough and Mebane for more affordable options within commuting distance.
  • 8.The Durham Human Relations Commission can investigate fair housing complaints if you face discrimination.

Average Rent in Durham

$1,250

/month (1BR)

$1,500

/month (2BR)

With subsidized housing (LIHTC or Section 8), you typically pay 30% of your adjusted gross income — often significantly less than market rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent an apartment in Durham with an eviction on my record?
Yes. Durham has many private landlords and affordable housing options, particularly in East and South Durham, that are accessible to renters with past evictions.
How long does an eviction stay on my record in North Carolina?
Eviction filings remain on NC court records indefinitely. Screening services typically report evictions for up to 7 years.
Does Durham Housing Authority accept people with evictions?
DHA reviews applications individually. Past evictions are considered but do not automatically result in denial.
Are there free legal services for tenants in Durham?
Yes. Legal Aid of North Carolina provides free legal help to low-income Durham residents facing eviction or housing disputes.
What neighborhoods in Durham are best for eviction-friendly rentals?
East Durham, South Durham, and areas near NC Central University have the most private landlords with flexible screening.
Can I seal my eviction record in North Carolina?
North Carolina does not currently have an eviction record sealing law. Records remain on public court records.

Related Resources

Related Resources on This Site

More for your state

Helpful guides

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Eviction laws, tenant screening practices, and housing availability change frequently. Always contact properties directly to confirm current policies. An eviction on your record does not automatically disqualify you from housing — many landlords evaluate applicants individually. For legal advice about your eviction record or tenant rights, contact a legal aid organization or a HUD-approved housing counselor.

Sources