My tenant contacted me directly asking for rent help

[David McFarland]

Ok, I'm at a loss...  He's the email I got yesterday from my tenant.  I have no idea how she got my personal email address:

"Hi I am at xxxxx Tucson, AZ.  I want to talk to someone about the my rent. The other lease' has passed away I am struggling to pay the whole 1,400.00 rent. I want to know if u r willing to work with me somehow? I have tried to notify (the management company) of my situation and have not received any help. Please let me know if something can b done to help me. Thank u"

I'm at a total loss on how to proceed.  Naturally, my heart goes out to this individual (if the story is true).  The tenants have always paid on time and has been good tenants.  She has already given notice that she will not be renewing citing her roomates (or partners) death.  Lease ends on 7/31/24.  

I don't want to ruin this lady's credit or anything but I also don't want to get played.  Any advice???

Thanks,

Dave 

[Tracy Minick]

It would likely be best to offer to end the lease early (mutually agreed termination) to gain access to your property. I would suggest that you should have your property manager manage all communications.