Tenant Not Paying Rent

JPin

I just received a text from my tenant to advise they wouldn't be paying rent for three months and not to contact them. 

Sigh that didn't take long

Cptralls

Surely even after today's announcement that can't be allowed?

AdrianC

Well, it gives you two months to get the s8 notice paperwork ready.

Cptralls

I really think the tenant will regret that move, the details are too loose at the moment. Landlords must be given protection too. 

Smodlet

What AdrianC said, unless the law has changed.  Two months rent arrears and you can issue a Section 8; there is no defence other than paying the arrears, as I understand it.  Grit your teeth and wait it out... Coronavirus notwithstanding, depending on what the government decide, of course.  At the moment, I don't think there is any edict about allowing delays in rent payments, only "recommendations" about being flexible and lenient.  If I am right, the ball is in your court.

Cptralls

Smodlet said:

What AdrianC said, unless the law has changed.  Two months rent arrears and you can issue a Section 8; there is no defence other than paying the arrears, as I understand it.  Grit your teeth and wait it out... Coronavirus notwithstanding, depending on what the government decide, of course.  At the moment, I don't think there is any edict about allowing delays in rent payments, only "recommendations" about being flexible and lenient.  If I am right, the ball is in your court.

Under the new rules today no eviction processes can begin for 3 months. 

HampshireH

The situation is a nightmare.

However it is based on those impacted so it's worth actually assessing this. Of you go to apply to court after the 3 months their defence will need to evidence that they were in hardship.

Also it isn't rent free its deferred so they are expected to pay. (Not helpful right now I know.)

I would respond to them in writing after you have done your research and reasonably outline when you will expect repayment by.

JayRitchie

Good on them for letting you know. Hope their financial position improves and they can use the rent free period to build an emergency fund.

HampshireH

JayRitchie said:

Good on them for letting you know. Hope their financial position improves and they can use the rent free period to build an emergency fund.

Rent free period? 

Wanderingpomm

I would just write to them I firming them that not paying their rent is not an option and you will seek possession if they are 2 months in arrears.
you could always arrange a payment plan if they are out of work? As they sent a text I’m not sure there is a lot of point 

Lokolo

I wouldn't even get in touch with them. I would just start proceedings at the earliest opportunity.