Dealing with rent strike tenant in San Jose

[Albert Ng]

I'm experience rent strike from my less expected tenant (wealthy, own a house in Southern California, and for sure have more than enough to weather the current covid-19 down turn). She sent me a text message asking for discount in rent. After I said no, she said she'll pay in a couple of weeks when her sba loan check arrive. I plan to talk to her & find out her exact plan / situation, but I haven't been able to talk to her directly. I'm not sure if she's just being bitchy, or she is planning to run. San Jose, and California have eviction moratorium in place until May 31th. Just wonder what you guy would do in my case? Let's say if she doesn't pay after April 15, should I post a 3-day notice?

[Nathan Gesner]

If tenants ask you to deviate from your written agreement, only agree to it in writing. In this case, I would tell her you will waive the late fees and hold off eviction as long as she pays rent no later than (DATE). IF she fails to pay on that date, proceed with your normal process.

If she asks to pay late again next month, do the same.

Verbal agreements are going to cause a lot of Landlords a lot of headaches over the next couple months. 

ANY TIME YOU DEVIATE FROM THE WRITTEN LEASE, IT SHOULD BE IN WRITING.