Tenant unemployed but didn’t tell me yet

[Kurt S.]

Hi,

I am living in a duplex as the landlord with tenants (a couple) living in the unit below.

The mailman mistakenly delivered a letter from my tenant to me today. Sadly it is from the office of unemployment.

I live in a tenant-friendly city. I thought they were obligated to tell me in writing.

Am I legally allowed to confront them about the situation? It’s not clear it will be any immediate threat to their ability to pay rent. His girlfriend had the better credit of the two to begin with. However I am obviously worried, as my bills depend on their ability to pay as well. Any advice?

 

[Matt Devincenzo]

Nope, they have no obligation to tell you and any prying on your part will likely only create conflict. I have had tenants pro-actively let me know, to which I say thanks and as long as rent is being paid then we are ok. I've also had them say nothing and take care of things or decide to move out a few months later. If things change and they miss a month or otherwise start having issues then you can address it. 

Treat people like responsible adults who are able to problem solve, come up with solutions and keep on top of their obligations. That's why you screened well in the first place, to evaluate their ability to 'adult' and not make their problems yours.