The ERP includes communication steps between landlords and tenants, notifications to tenants with specific information, and required court forms.  The goal of the program is to bring tenants and landlords together with trained Eviction Resolution Specialists to explore solutions.  This includes accessing state and local rent assistance and creating realistic payment plans that will help tenants retain their housing and avoid the legal eviction process, while landlords benefit from continuity of occupancy and income.  

The ERP is being offered at no cost.  It is funded from federal CARES Act monies.  Tacoma-Pierce County Housing Justice Project and Pierce County Center for Dialogue and Resolution are providing the staffing for this program.  

As long as the mandates remain in place, the program is voluntary.  It will become mandatory when the mandates expire.  The Superior Court hopes that landlords and tenants will use this free program now and get a head start on problem-solving.  Complying with the program now will satisfy the mandatory requirements when the mandates expire.