tenants paying late

[Thad Miller]

One of my units has a young couple that have been paying late for the last several months.  They always pay, but about a week after the final due date.  I have never charged a fee, but I threaten that one day I will.  Am I not being a good landlord?  Am I training them to take advantage?  How do I become more strict without causing a battle?  Oh yea, I believe I am already being lenient since I allow them to partake in their medical marijuana (California).  I'm not happy with everything, what should I do?  Well, finally getting rent every month makes me second guess my disheartening.

[Corby Goade]

I've had this same problem and have found the most important thing is establishing a good relationship with them and open communication. Once they trust me and see that I make every effort to take care of them and the property, it's easy to honestly explain the situation- "when you pay late, I have to pay my mortgage late, and that causes me major problems. I like having you as tenants, but the rent must be on time so I can keep this house, and you can continue to live here." I've found that if they respect you, this will do the trick. After that conversation, if they do happen to pay late again, I serve them a pay or quit notice in person, and repeat that sentiment.

I've only evicted tenants twice, but both times, it's started with this tactic, and each time they've ended up apologizing to me for making me evict them and the stress that it's caused me. It's all about the communication. I know that won't always be the case, but thus far, it has been in my experience.