NC H984

Creates an expedited administrative removal process for unauthorized occupants of residential property in North Carolina, allowing property owners to bypass traditional eviction procedures by filing a sworn affidavit with a clerk of superior court or magistrate.

Property owner or authorized representative must file affidavit alleging nine specific conditions, including that occupant has no legal claim, paid no rent, and was directed to leave; filing fee is $25.

Law enforcement must remove the unauthorized person within 24 hours of receiving the affidavit and may arrest for trespass, outstanding warrants, or other crimes; property owner may request police remain present while changing locks and removing personal property.

Law enforcement officers, courts, and property owners are immune from liability for good faith compliance with the removal process, except for gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing.

Wrongfully removed persons may sue the affiant for civil damages including actual costs, triple the fair market rent of the residence, civil penalties of $400–$4,000, court costs, and attorney fees; provision becomes effective October 1, 2024.