Pandemic is not over, yet. We are experiencing a myriad of negative consequences it is having on our lives. Financial struggles brought by job losses are one of the most frightening. If you are suffering financial hardship due to coronavirus, you may be considering speaking to your landlord about rent deferral or rent reduction. This is not an easy task, but you have nothing to lose, so why not try?
Landlord’s Perspective
The government has asked landlords to be ‘sympathetic’ to renters who are struggling with rent payments due to coronavirus pandemic. As research shows, most landlords are willing to and do work with their tenants to help them relieve their financial stress.
From landlords’ perspective, it is beneficial to work with their tenants and negotiate agreements. This is especially true if tenants have never missed a rent payment before. Finding and keeping a ‘good tenant’ is not an easy task and landlords know it. They too would, most likely, prefer to avoid having to invest in searching for a new tenant. With the current economic downturn, they may not be willing to risk having their property unoccupied for weeks and potentially months.
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First thing to remember, whatever you do keep a record. Make sure all communication with your landlord has been in writing. It is also a good idea to make copies.
Start from emailing your landlord. Explain your situation and new circumstances. Describe why you are struggling with your rent. It is also advisable to add how you are trying to address your current situation and what the outcomes may be. Also, assure your landlord that you will be updating them on a regular basis. Then, make your offer. You could either ask for a full rent deferral or a temporary rent reduction. End your message highlighting your hope for a successful agreement.
If you are unsure or worried about the legalities of your negotiations, please contact Citizens Advice Bureau.
If you are looking for a new home, please contact us. We might have a perfect new home for you.