Tenant withholding rent

[Robert Gates]

I recently ran into an issue with one of my tenants. Here is the issue. There is an issue with a minor roof leak. I contacted a repair man who was unable to get to the repair immediately so to being busy. I made contact with the Tenat to keep him appraised on how and when the repairs will take place however now the tenant is withholding the rent. I’m guessing he is withholding it because the issue has not been resolved yet. I was wondering if anyone else has had an issue like this? Thanks.

[Mike McCarthy]

@Robert Gates As everything is done now, I would have a friendly, but clear conversation with your tenant.  Rent is legally only allowed to be withheld for habitability issues that aren't being addressed by the landlord (no heat in the winter, no water, etc).  If it were me, I would print out that part of your state's landlord tenant law and give it to him for reference.  I would approach it as "I know there may have been some confusion, but in the future, you need to pay the rent on time."

I would also take the opportunity to discuss with him whether he's having trouble coming up with the rent. With Covid, evictions are tough/impossible, so having a good line of communication with your tenant is important.  If he can't make the rent, let's work together to make it work.  The last thing you want is a tenant that goes dark on you.

Good luck!