Knoxville woman, 79, being evicted from apartment over ill daughter’s ‘excessive noise and disruptive behavior’ — how to handle housing obstacles on a fixed income amid US housing crisis

Facing eviction after 25 years

Powers has lived at the Center Court apartment complex — managed by Freedom Investment Group (FIG) — for more than 25 years. Until recently, everything was going well. But when her adult daughter moved in after a period of homelessness, things took a turn.

“She called and said, ‘Mom, can I come over?’ I said, ‘Of course.’ So, that was in December of 2023,” Powers said.

Her daughter, who struggles with unaddressed mental health issues, exhibited behavior that unsettled other residents. As complaints mounted, the property manager issued a notice giving her 14 days to vacate the premises, citing “excessive noise” and the presence of an “unauthorized guest.” Her daughter left within the 14-day window, but returned shortly after.

In early April, Powers discovered she might be evicted from her apartment after her rent payment was declined. A week later, FIG accepted Powers’ rent payment, but the underlying issue remained unresolved.

As a result, a formal complaint was filed, and Powers was summoned to court on April 29. From FIG’s point of view, it is “responsible for providing tenants with a peaceful and tranquil living environment,” which includes “limiting excessive noise and disruptive behavior by a tenant.”

Powers appeared in court with a Legal Aid attorney. As of now, she is allowed to remain in her apartment for two more months — under strict conditions.

First, Powers’ daughter must leave the apartment by May 1 and remain on the no-trespass list. She cannot return to the property or be invited back. If she shows up, Powers is required to report it to the police.

Powers is now hoping to find a new place to live within the next month — ideally a single-family home, where her daughter’s presence won’t disturb the neighbors. In the meantime, the Knox County Eviction Program will cover Powers’ rent through June, and Water Angel Ministries is stepping in to support both her and her daughter.

“With her daughter, we will work hand in hand with her,” said Kathy Oran, program coordinator at Water Angel Ministries. “Do an assessment first of all to find out what her needs are so that she can be somewhere safe, so that she can be successful.”

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How can seniors on a fixed income protect themselves?

Julie Powers isn’t alone. Many seniors living on a fixed income face similar challenges — especially during a housing crisis.

After living in what was presumably an affordable apartment for over 25 years, Powers is now being forced to look for a new home in an increasingly expensive rental market.

With average rent prices in the Knoxville area hovering around $1,800, it may be difficult for her to find an affordable place to call home with her fixed income of $1,900 per month.

Along with rising housing costs, older adults often face increased health care expenses. These mounting costs can quickly deplete retirement savings. However, financial assistance programs are available. Seniors may qualify for rental assistance, housing vouchers and emergency rental aid to help cover expenses and avoid eviction.

The HOPE Hotline (1-888-995-4673) offers free counseling and housing-related education. Representatives can also help connect older adults to local resources that offer financial and housing support.

According to the National Council on Aging, thousands of public and private programs exist to help low-income older adults pay for essentials like groceries, health care and more. Accessing these resources can help reduce pressure on fixed income.