As a decent landlord, hearing that the tenant “cannot pay the rent for the upcoming month” might really seem to you as one of the most alarming thing you have heard. Or, maybe hearing something like “There is a huge leak in the kitchen, can you come and fix this thing?” is worse than the first one? Nevertheless, these are things that every landlords doesn’t want to hear but might face some day.

However, if you are dealing with a conscientious tenant who has been paying all the rents for years and on time, how should you react?

Acting as a landlord, you probably should stay professional and consistent to the agreement that the rent should be payed every month. Still, you are the person responsible for paying the mortgage for the property, the taxes, the maintenance costs etc.

On the other hand, if you act as a friend, you should probably wait for some time for the tenant to find money. However, you should inform the tenant that you completely understand their situation, but still, you have made an agreement that should be respected.

In the end, you can try to combine your friendliness and professionalism to solve the situation. Talk to the tenant and find out the reason why they cannot pay the rent on time. Maybe they have lost the job and desperately trying to find new one. If you have confidence in your tenant, stay patient and give them time to solve their problems. If things get better after a month, you will stay in good relations and reaffirm your friendship. If not, the tenant should understand that you have fulfilled your obligations and they should do the same.