This can be something as common as failure to abide by noise regulations or more ominous activity such as gang or drug activity. In any of these situations, the owner's decision to terminate the tenancy is made thoughtfully, after considering all possible solutions short of having a vacant unit. However, if the tenant refuses to vacate, the landlord will have to prove that the criminal activity in fact took place. Rarely do other building residents wish to get involved in a proceeding and testify against a tenant. Sometimes this is out of friendship, other times out of fear of retaliation.
Responsible tenants look to the building manager or owner to enforce the rules equally.
In many cases, however, they ask to remain anonymous. All tenants suffer when the landlord cannot control the building and make the ultimate decision whether to ask a resident to relocate. Property owners often accept a marginal tenant, safe in the knowledge that if the tenant becomes a problem, that tenant can be asked to relocate. Rent will be lost during the search for a new resident. Costs such as advertising and cleaning will be incurred.