What If Tenants Don’t Pay Rent

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These simple steps can help you deal with any late rental payment that might come up.

Affording today’s economy is not necessarily easy by any means, but with wise tactics, it is possible to live comfortably below one’s means. No matter what, it’s best to maintain the ability to pay on time as a responsible tenant if you are renting. If you are a landlord and are dealing with a late payment, here’s what to do if tenants don’t pay rent.

The Option of a Grace Period

While it is not the law, it is possible to include a grace period of 3-5 days after the payment due date. If tenants are affording the rent paycheck to paycheck, it is possible that they are not even getting the funds to pay for their rent on time and need extra time to make that payment. Even so, charging a late fee can help discourage tenants from making late payments the norm.

A Follow-up Phone Call

Double check that the tenant really has missed their payment due date before sending them any notice. Once you are certain, you can make a phone call to notify them of the late payment and check the status on the payment. It is not legally necessary, but it can be a way to extend grace and support to the tenant.

A Pay or Quit Notice/Written Notice

Once the grace period is up and you still are not receiving any payment from the tenant, you can send them a pay or quit notice with a payment deadline. In Maryland, it is common to send a written notice with a payment deadline of ten days. The expectation is that if the tenant fails to pay the rent, they will be evicted.

Filing a Complaint to Begin Eviction

In Maryland, the landlord can file a complaint with the District Court to begin the tenant eviction process. The District Court will send a summons to the tenant to appear in court over the late rental payment. The tenant is of course free to defend themselves. 

Late or zero payments from residential or commercial tenants can cause serious losses for landlords, who are doing their best to manage their own livelihoods as well. If you are a landlord, you have every right to sort out the tenant payments and evict tenants who don’t pay.

Trust the Professionals at Clagett Enterprises for Your Realty Needs

If you’re looking for an experienced property management company, the perfect realtor for your property, or a professional to assist you during your purchase of any home, you can rely on Clagett Enterprises. Clagett Enterprises is a full-service real estate company with almost 30 years of experience in the Frederick and Western Maryland area. For assistance with commercial sales, leasing, management, and development and consulting, contact us online or give us a call at 301-665-6009. To meet our team and see some of our beautiful homes, follow us on Facebook and Linkedin.

This entry was posted on Thursday, October 16th, 2025 at 3:38 pm. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.