What is considered a legitimate reason for a landlord to evict a tenant?

A legitimate reason for a landlord to evict a tenant is based on the tenant's failure to pay rent. This constitutes a breach of the lease agreement, which typically requires regular payment of rent as a fundamental obligation of tenancy. When a tenant does not fulfill this obligation, the landlord may pursue eviction as a legal remedy to recover possession of the property and ensure that rental payments are received. This process usually follows specific legal procedures that vary by jurisdiction, but failure to pay rent is universally recognized as a valid ground for eviction.

In contrast, the other options do not present legitimate grounds for eviction under most lease agreements. Frequent visits from a tenant's friends, allowing pets on the property (if not explicitly prohibited), or changing decor without permission may be issues that could warrant discussions or warnings from the landlord but typically would not justify eviction outright unless they directly violate the lease terms. Managing tenant behavior can involve different approaches, but non-payment of rent is a clear-cut and serious violation that justifies legal action.