Self-initiated moves during the formal eviction process: Findings from Swedish Register Data

Abstract

A large body of research has demonstrated that evictions affect already vulnerable groups and are linked to a number of adverse outcomes. However, prior findings largely rely on enforced evictions processed through the legal system and it has been suggested that such an approach might underestimate the number of evictions. Using comprehensive Swedish individual-level register data from 2009 to 2012, this study extends prior literature by focusing on self-initiated moves that occur during a formal eviction process but before an enforced removal. Results from explorative statistical analyses indicate that self-initiated moves during the formal eviction process are four times more common compared with enforced evictions. Although self-initiated moves typically affect the same disadvantaged groups as those facing enforced removals, those who self-initiated their move were younger. Households with children were also found to be more common in that group compared with those faced with enforced removals. Implications for research, policy, and practice are discussed.