Rent Overdue? Here’s How to Give Notice
Mar 08, 2022 brooklyn landlord agent,Brooklyn Landlords,brooklyn real estate,brooklyn rentals,landlord tips,rental market,rentals
Even if the tenant’s in good standing, you still need to send a prompt and firmly worded notice in writing. Download this template to get started.
In a perfect world, every tenant would pay their rent on time, every month. In reality, even the best tenants get caught up and forget what day it is, resulting in a late rent payment from time to time.
If you have a tenant in good standing whose rent has slipped their mind, don’t delay!
While you want to assume positive intent, you still need to send them a prompt and firmly worded notice in writing. Each day that the rent is late is money lost — and this month’s late rent could lead to another, which might ultimately lead to eviction. It’s not something you want to think about, but you’ll need that documentation if you need to evict a tenant.
- Send the notice immediately once the due date has passed and before your grace period is over. Include the balance due, plus any late fees or pending late fees they’ll incur for failing to pay before the grace period ends. It should also clearly state the consequences of not paying.
- Having a template on hand to fill in and send quickly when needed will help simplify this dreaded task. You can print and mail the letter or complete your portion electronically and email it.
- Make sure your tenants are well aware of the process that takes place when rent is late. How long do they have before late fees occur? How long do they have until eviction enters the conversation? These details should be written in the lease, and talked through in person, before the signing takes place.
- Consider pointing your tenant toward available resources if you know they’re struggling to keep up with the rent. There are a number of programs available to Brooklyn residents today.
All in all, it’s important to make late rent a serious situation. Be sure your tenants know that you expect to be paid on time, and follow through with every agreement in your lease, from late fees to further notices. Let them know you’re there to help, too — after all, you both benefit when the bills are up to date.
And if you feel like you could benefit from some support in finding responsible tenants — or filling the shoes of your current renter after their lease ends — feel free to reach out to us! We’re not only here to offer tips and advice. We’re proud to offer complete brokerage services throughout Brooklyn, too.