What to do if your tenant doesn’t pay rent: A guide for UK landlords

June 12, 2024 1:08 pm

Every landlord hopes for a smooth and trouble-free tenancy, but unfortunately, there can be times when a tenant doesn’t pay rent. This can be stressful and leave you wondering what steps to take next.

Here at LFL, we understand the challenges landlords face. We’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the process of dealing with a tenant who isn’t paying rent in the UK.

Early communication is key

The first step is to try and communicate with your tenant as soon as possible. A simple phone call or email enquiring about the late payment can often resolve the issue quickly. There could be a genuine reason for the delay, such as a forgotten payment or unexpected financial hardship.

Consider a payment plan

If your tenant is experiencing financial difficulty, you might consider working out a payment plan. This allows them to catch up on missed rent in instalments, making it more manageable for them. Be sure to get any agreement in writing to ensure clarity for both parties.

Serve a Pre-Action letter

If communication and attempts at a payment plan are unsuccessful, you can send a formal pre-action letter. This is a clear and official document outlining the outstanding rent and the potential consequences of non-payment, such as court action. LFL can help draft and serve such a letter to ensure it complies with all legal requirements.

Explore debt recovery options

If the pre-action letter doesn’t prompt payment, you may need to consider debt recovery options. LFL offers a range of services, including:

Tracing Services: We can help locate missing tenants to ensure effective communication.
Small Claims Court: This is a common first step for debts up to £10,000. We can guide you through the process and maximise your chances of a successful claim.
Enforcement Options: If you have a County Court Judgment (CCJ) in your favour, we can advise on enforcement options like Attachment of Earnings Orders or High Court Writs of Control.

Taking possession of your property

If the tenant continues to refuse to pay rent or vacate the property, you may need to start eviction proceedings. LFL can guide you through this process, which includes serving a Section 8 Notice and potentially applying for a possession order through the courts. Our Tenant Eviction Services offer a fixed fee option, ensuring you know the costs involved upfront.

Legal advice is always recommended

It’s important to note that the legal process surrounding rent arrears and eviction can be complex. LFL advises that you seek professional legal advice to ensure you are following the correct procedures and protecting your rights throughout the process. Our Propertymark-qualified team can help you.