First, you need to figure out when you CAN pay the rent. Are you just waiting for your unemployment checks to start? Are you borrowing money but the check from Mom has to clear your bank first? Can you pay even part of the rent? Maybe make it in weekly payments rather than one big payment?
Second, how long is this going to be a problem? Is it just this month? Do you foresee this as an ongoing problem forever?
Take that information and create a PLAN to pay. It has to be reasonable. You can’t just say “I’ll pay you when I get around to it”. Your Landlord needs to know you’re sincere about your desire to pay and will do whatever you must to make sure the rent does get paid.
A GOOD Tenant having a TEMPORARY problem notifies the Landlord immediately and works out a payment arrangement, if possible. It’s not always possible because not every Landlord has months and months of expense money squirreled away.
THEN you talk to the landlord. If possible, do it in person, not via text or email. This is because there is too much chance of miscommunication when texting/emailing. In person, he can see the sincerity in your eyes and hear it in your voice.
You explain, in concise terms, what has happened and what you plan to do about it: “Due to the virus, I’ve been laid off because the shop just doesn’t have enough work right now. I’ll be recalled when things pick back up, but in the meantime I’ve filed my unemployment claim and am waiting for the checks to start. I’m also looking for other work to supplement the income. I can pay half the rent now, but have to wait for my unemployment to pay the other half. Can you work with me on this until things settle down?”
Most landlords will work with you if you’re sincere and really make an effort to pay. Keep in touch with the landlord! Keep him advised on your unemployment claim – “I just got the notice that I’ve been approved! I don’t know exactly when the checks start, but as soon as they do, I’ll make a payment.”
Then keep up with your end of the bargain. That’s vital. Communication and action. Those are the keys.
If nothing can be worked out, a GOOD Tenant agrees to move out as quickly as possible, without childishly damaging the property, and doesn’t make the Landlord go through the expense of evicting them.
Credit: Eileen Wood