Covid-19 and rental evictions

[Dan F.]

I had an eviction order that was scheduled for April 1 but no with NYS postponing all evictions for at least 90 days... that won’t happen but the tenant did sign an agreement in court to be out April 1. With all that’s going on, what is everyone doing in similar situations? Reaching out/ sending a letter to tenant stating that rent is still due otherwise additional legal action can be taken after courts open back up?

Has anyone had any luck with mortgage companies if rent can’t be collected due to coronavirus?  On a similar note another tenant also just informed me that she was laid off due to coronavirus - she has money for April rent but said she’s not sure after that but applied for unemployment. Any other programs that I could refer her to that would help?

I feel like it’s easy for politicians to waive rent without solving the underlying problems like rental assistance and how will mortgages, taxes, etc. be paid! 

Happy to hear advice and what other landlords are doing. 

[John Warren]

@Dan F. the reality is, you have zero leverage on tenants who were currently facing eviction. This is terrible, but this is an unprecedented event. Once this all blows over, I am certain that the back log of evictions will get cleared although it will take some time. If you can communicate with the tenant, make sure that you are clear that rent is still due and that you will take the tenant to collections for the past rent, etc. 

For good paying tenants who are making a good faith effort, I don't think there is much we as land lords can do other than try to help them get back on track. It sounds like your second tenant is making a strong effort to stay current on bills and I am guessing this tenant will get back on track over the next few months. I am personally less concerned with these types of tenants. They are living a reasonable life style and are facing an unprecedented emergency.