None paying tenants Using COVID as an excuse to live free. NYC

[Kevita L.]

Asking for a family member.

Family member has a two family house and the top floor are used to rent out four rooms(4 Rooms). Out of the four rooms one paid, the other paid late, one paid partial( unemployed before the COVID crisis) and one that said he was going to pay since last week. House is located in Brooklyn,NY.

The partial renter has always been known to be a late payer and has been struggling for a long time to pay rent. He recently told the landlord that he has been out of work for a month but in reality he has been out of work since Oct 2019. He gave the landlord $300 out of $900 rent. He advised the land lord to take the money out of his security deposit. I recommend the land lord to have everything in print from a legal standpoint.

None paying renter. Has always payed late as well. He is part of the Gig economy, a Photographer. Been there the longest. Payed his rent 60 percent on time. Agreed to pay for his rent but has not paid and has been avoiding the land lord. Says he isn't home but instead is always home.

I understand that Covid has put many people on the hot seat. Unemployment has taken a major dip. The home owner still has to pay their mortgage and keep the light, water and other utilities on.

This month is understandable but what about the following Months?

How are land lords dealing with none paying Tenants?

How will you deal if you have to evict tenants that's using this as a way to get over and save their money?

Any information would be great.