My Tenants have broken up!

[Susan Franke]

I'm a landlord of a duplex and a couple weeks ago we heard a loud argument (we live on the other side) and then she left with a suitcase and we haven't seen or heard from her. Their rent is not due for a couple weeks.....Do I send a message now and ask if there is an issue with paying rent this month? Or is it better to wait and only address the issue if they are late? On the one hand, I don't want to get involved in their personal business, on the other I'd really like to know if I should be looking for a new tenant and otherwise protecting myself here. I do know the person still there has a great job so paying the rent on his own *should* still work...Any advice would be greatly appreciated! 

[Kyle J.]

I wouldn’t get involved in their personal business. If rent doesn’t get paid, then - at that time - address the rent not being paid. You shouldn’t even care why it’s not paid (i.e. they broke up, had an unexpected car repair bill, check got lost in the mail, etc). Rent is either paid or it’s not.

Just respond professionally if it comes to that and remind them they’re both still responsible for the rent (assuming they’re both on the lease) and you expect it to be paid. 

In the meantime, don’t stress out about it. Chances are they’ll be back together before rent is due again.