How should notices and late fees be handled regarding rent ?

Question

My tenant has been late on rent since before Covid. She gets a portion of her rent from her church, not to mention it’s below market rate for her unit. She has a five day grace period from the 1st to the 5th.

How should i contact her after the 5th day and how should a late fee be applied and collected ?

Ishmael Johnson · Answer

@Bob Okenwa

So if the tenant deposits a check, should i send a check with the late fee amount with the notice as certified mail ?

Bob Okenwa · Answer

@Ishmael Johnson

I'm sure you Google an example or template, but you want to make sure that what you send is compliant with your local laws.

Ishmael Johnson · Answer

@Scott M.

I’m am in New Jersey how can i get more info regarding this?

Ishmael Johnson · Answer

@Bob Okenwa

Is there specific wording or format i should use when sending the certified mail?

Scott M. · Answer

In most states your lease is what serves notice.  It lays out the amount and when it is charged.  Tenant signs the lease and now that is in full effect.  You charge it on the tenant ledger.

Bob Okenwa · Answer

@Ishmael JohnsonGenerally, your lease agreement should specify how late rent notices will be sent. Some states don’t recognize email as an acceptable method of delivery, so late rent notices should typically be delivered in person or sent via certified mail. Be sure to understand the landlord-tenant laws for your area before giving your tenant a late rent notice. The late fee is typically added to the past-due rent amount.