Today on Ask All-County, we’re talking to our bookkeeper, who handles all things accounting. Whenever we have a financial question, Anna is the one to answer it. She’s sharing her process for dealing with tenants who don’t pay rent.

Rent Drop Box and Rent Direct Deposit

First, have an easy way for tenants to make their rental payments. Have a drop box available for them at your office, or let them make deposits directly. You also must know your lease. You need to know your due dates, your late fee structure, and what you can claim on a notice should you have to pursue the eviction process.

Three Day Notice to Pay or Quit

Serve and post your Three-Day Notice after the tenant is late on rent. It’s important to review the notice carefully before you post it. Make sure all occupants are listed and make sure the entire address is listed, including the unit number. You want to have the county included, and you need to be certain that the amount owed is correct. After you do these things and post your notice, wait the three business days. If there is no contact from the tenant and you don’t receive any money, we recommend you contact an eviction attorney. The attorney will get you through the process without any mistakes, represent you in court, and ensure the entire process is smooth.

Most importantly, do not have any more contact with the tenant once you move forward and enlist the help of an attorney. If your tenant contacts you, advise them to contact your attorney.

You now have the guidelines for what to do if your tenant doesn’t pay rent. Make sure you give your tenants multiple ways to pay rent, understand your lease, and follow the eviction process consistently.

If your tenant doesn’t pay rent and you’re not sure what to do, please don’t hesitate to contact us at All County PPM. We’d be happy to help you.