How to ask your landlord for a discount on rent
By: Pamela Morgan
Tags: Eviction, Discount, Negotiation, Rent, Covid 19

Did you know you can ask your landlord for a temporary reduction for April and May rent? You can. Big corporations do it all the time. And while no landlord wants to get less money, many are willing to negotiate when tenants fall on hard times. This article is all about how to ask your landlord for a discount on rent. Share it with anyone who you think might need it and leave comments so we can all learn from your experience.

“Now that we’re on lockdown, I have no idea how I’m going to pay rent.” “I’m scared of the virus but I’m also afraid of getting evicted. I have no way to get rent money.”

Over the past few weeks I’ve been hearing things like this over and over from friends, family, and clients who were afraid they’d be out of work and now are. And those who still have paying jobs are facing extra expenses to help friends and family who are out of work.

Many people live paycheck to paycheck. Now that paychecks have abruptly stopped, many people are without a safety net. And they’re scared. If this sounds like you, you don’t have to hide, wait, and wonder. You can always ask your landlord for a rent reduction.

Yes, rent reductions are a thing! And they’re not just for corporations who get them more often than you might think.

Asking for a rent reduction might seem scary. But really, if they say “No” you’ll be in the same position you are in now. If they say “Yes” you’ll feel more at ease. Your landlord might actually appreciate knowing that you might not be able to pay, instead of waiting for a payment that never comes. That way they can plan too.

If you have a good, decent, or even basic relationship with your landlord, and you know you won’t be able to pay, then consider asking them for a temporary rent reduction. A sample letter is below, you should customize it for your situation.

T IP: Always get written confirmation that your landlord has agreed to reduce your rent. If you talk to them in person or by phone, send them a summary of your conversation in writing.

Of course, this isn’t legal advice. Depending on the laws where you live, you might be entitled to a rent reduction (discount you don’t have to repay) or a rent deferment (discount that you have to pay back later). You’ll need to consult local laws in your jurisdiction to be sure. But in the meantime, there isn’t much downside to asking for a reduction in rent if you don’t think you’ll be able to make your payment.

I hope you find this letter useful. Be sure to customize it for your situation. Share it with others who might need it.

Wishing you happiness and good health.

SAMPLE LETTER

TODAY’S DATE

Dear Landlord,

I’m writing to ask you for a [50% rent reduction, 75% rent reduction, 100% rent reduction] for April and May of 2020. As you know, our area is under a shelter-in-place order and because I don’t work in an “essential” establishment my workplace is closed and I’m no longer able to earn money. Unfortunately, I do not have a large savings and without your help with a rent discount I will be forced to choose between rent, food, and medicine. I know this is a big request and I’m sure your family is suffering too due to the global COVID-19 crisis. I assure you that as soon as I’m able to get back to work I will return to paying full rent.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know that you accept this request in writing at this email address.

Warm regards,

YOUR NAME

Tenant at YOUR ADDRESS