Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California
Paying rent late due to unemployment
I've just received an offer to start working after being unemployed for 4 months. Rent is due on the 1st. Can I call my owner/manager and tell them this with a promise to pay rent 2 weeks late? Can they still process an eviction or serve me notice to vacate or will they accept, perhaps, a letter from the employer as proof of income?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Paying rent late due to unemployment
Congratulations on getting a job. I can't predict how your landlord will react, but your reasoning seems sound. Check out caltenantlaw.com .
Re: Paying rent late due to unemployment
This is as much a matter of the landlord's policies and attitudes as it is a matter of law. If you fail to pay rent within any grace period provided in your lease or rental agreement, sure, the landlord can give you a three-day notice, but I don't think it's sper likely if you level with them. A letter from the employer might help, but it isn't quite "proof" of income.
Re: Paying rent late due to unemployment
They can serve a three day pay or quit notice if you don't pay on time. You then have 3 days to pay without losing your tenancy. Your employer may give you a small advance if needed. Or the owner may cooperate. Talk it out. If you are otherwise a good tenant they will want to keep you.