With people across the nation dealing with the effects COVID-19 has had on the economy, it’s no surprise that renters are wondering how they’re going to make rent next month. The stimulus checks that started being issued this week max out at $1,200, which barely covers the rent in many U.S. cities and only covers a portion of rent in the most expensive ones.
That’s where rent abatement, rent freezes, and eviction moratoriums come in. We’ll explain what each one is and provide tips for starting a conversation with your landlord about working with your current financial situation.
What is rent abatement?
The term has been tossed around a lot since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, but what does it mean? The simple definition of rent abatement is an agreement between the landlord and the tenant that provides a period of free rent. The tenant essentially gets to live rent-free while continuing to occupy the apartment or house. Alternatively, a rent abatement can also come in the form of a rent reduction. Generally speaking, both the landlord and the tenant will discuss rent abatement options and agree upon one.
Rent Abatement vs. Rent Freezes
Rent freezes, on the other hand, are ordered and enforced by your local, state, or federal government, without any input from you or your landlord. Rent freezes pause all rent payments for a period of time and sometimes allow for payment plans once that period is over. Advocacy groups and collective renter strikes are usually the best way to call on local and state governments to put rent freezes in place.
Rent increase freezes are another version of something your government can enforce. Governments can pass a bill stating that no rent increases shall happen for a certain period of time. In the case of the current situation with COVID-19, there are many state-wide and partial federal bans on rent increases. Knowing that your monthly rent won’t suddenly increase will alleviate some of the pressure, but it doesn’t usually solve for the “now”, unfortunately.
Eviction Moratoriums
An eviction moratorium states that renters are legally protected from being evicted due to nonpayment of rent. These can be implemented in a city, state, and federal level. Over the past month, cities like New York and San Jose have announced eviction moratoriums. Many cities have also provided a period of 6 months for renters to repay every month of rent they’re currently unable to pay.
Tips for Talking to Your Landlord
It’s likely going to be up to you to start the conversation with your landlord. Many landlords have other jobs, rent out multiple properties, or simply aren’t thinking about your specific financial situation. Come up with a script or written letter before speaking to them about a rent abatement or reduction. This should help minimize any nerves or fears you have about asking for a rent abatement. In it, you should include:
- Your name and address
- How you’ve personally been affected by COVID-19
- Your current financial situation
- Why you are requesting a rent abatement
- Any additional information you think provides clarity to your request
Call or email your landlord, whichever you feel more comfortable doing. Ideally, you will have come up with a solution that is mutually beneficial and your landlord will respond positively. Allow some time for them to consider your situation and follow up in a few days if you’ve received no response. If they can’t offer a rent abatement, perhaps there’s a rent reduction they can offer you. It never hurts to ask!
Additional Resources
Remember, your city, county, or state might have additional rent relief programs. Do your research so you know your rights when it comes to eviction moratoriums and rent freezes. If you feel that you’re being illegally evicted or are dealing with a rent increase, visit the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s website or contact your local housing advocate organization. In addition, the United Way can be reached by calling 211, and they can connect you with organizations that may be able to help with rental assistance.
At the end of the day, both you and your landlord are dealing with unprecedented times. The more time you give them to process and understand your financial situation, the more willing they might be to work something out with you.
If you find that you need to, there’s a safe way to move during this time. When you’re ready to begin your search, check out thousands of apartments on Zumper and find an affordable place.
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