What To Do If You Can’t Pay Rent | Landlord Communication

If you can't pay rent, timely and open communication with your landlord can help you get back on track. Read our guide on what to do if you can’t pay rent.

What To Do If You Can’t Pay Rent

We all know that paying rent on time is an important part of being a renter. But sometimes in life, things happen, and you may face financial difficulties that mean you can’t pay rent on time. While not being able to pay your rent can be a stressful situation, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of further delinquent payments and avoid eviction. Having an open and honest discussion with your landlord when you realize you can’t pay rent may feel uncomfortable, but it’s the best way to deal with delinquent payments. Read our guide on what to do if you can’t pay rent.

1. Don’t Panic

While this is easier said than done, panicking won’t make the situation any better or easier to resolve. Having a clear head will help you decide on the best course of action. There is nearly always a resolution if you can’t pay rent, so take some deep breaths and come at the problem as calmly as possible.

Check Your Lease Agreement

If you think you can’t pay your next rent payment in full or on time, the first thing you should do is check your lease agreement. The lease agreement will tell you whether you have a grace period for making delinquent payments or if your landlord charges late fees for missed payments. Understanding this will help you decide on your next steps.

2. Reach Out To Your Landlord

If you think you’re going to be in a position where you can’t pay rent, you should reach out to your landlord as soon as possible. Don’t wait until your payment is delinquent before reaching out – try to give your landlord as much notice as possible. Explain the situation to your landlord clearly and respectfully. It’s important to be as honest as possible. Work with your landlord to find a solution that suits you both. Suggesting a repayment plan with your landlord shows them that you are eager to fix the problem.

3. Keep A Record Of Everything

Keeping a record of your conversations with your landlord about delinquent payments will help make sure you’re both on the same page if you can’t pay rent. It’s best to have these conversations in a format that can be saved, such as letters or emails, as opposed to phone calls and text messages. Keep copies of any communication you send to your landlord and store any communication they send to you. Having any agreements you make with your landlord right there in black and white will make it clear what’s expected from you as the tenant and your landlord.

4. Rethink Your Living Situation

If you can’t pay rent for your current property, it may be time to look at other options. If you’re renting a whole property, it might be worth considering renting a room instead. Alcove allows you to rent a room in a beautiful home that suits your budget. What’s more, your rent covers more than the room. With Alcove, utilities, Wi-Fi, shared space furniture, washer and dryer, and garden maintenance, it’s a very cost-effective way of living, reducing the risk of delinquent payments.

Final Thoughts

No one ever wants to be in a position where they can’t pay rent, but it can happen for a number of reasons. Life can get complicated and we’re only human – these things can happen to anyone. The key is to contact your landlord at the earliest opportunity and be really open and honest about your situation. Showing your willingness to fix the problem with a repayment plan will show your landlord you’re serious about putting things right. Timely and open communication with your landlord will reduce the risk of further delinquent payments and the likelihood of eviction.

What’s Alcove’s Policy On Delinquent Rent?

We know our tenants are only human, and events can happen that mean they can’t pay rent on time. Our aim is to set clear expectations around delinquent rent and help as much as possible if there’s an issue around paying rent. Find out more about Alcove’s delinquent rent policy here.