What to do when a tenant doesn’t pay rent
Days 1 to 15: remind and talk
Most late payments are oversights or one bad month. A clear, blame-free reminder (automatic if you use iSign Payments) solves almost all of them. If there is no reply, call. Keep a written record of what was agreed.
Week 3: a formal written demand
Send a demand for payment by a method that proves content and delivery (recorded letter or a certified email service). State the amounts, months owed, deadline and consequences. This document matters for any later proceedings.
Negotiate before suing
A written payment plan signed by both sides is usually faster and cheaper than court. Document it with a signed acknowledgement of debt in iSign and schedule each instalment as a due date with payment by link.
The legal route
The procedure depends on where the property is: a Section 8 notice on arrears grounds in England, the eviction for non-payment in Spain, the clause résolutoire and commandement de payer in France. Timings depend on the court and on tenant-protection rules. Take legal advice before starting.
What you must never do
- Change the locks, cut off power or water, or enter the property: it is unlawful eviction or harassment in most countries.
- Keep the deposit before the tenancy ends.
- Threaten or harass: it damages your position in court.
How to prevent it
A clear signed agreement, a lawful deposit, a convenient payment method with automatic reminders, and a receipt for every payment. With the payment history and receipts in order, any claim is far simpler.
€4.99/month and 1% per payment: if you don’t collect, you don’t pay. Includes unlimited due dates, unlimited sends and your brand.
Frequently asked questions
How many months of arrears before I can act?
You can send a formal demand after one missed payment. Court procedures often require a minimum (two months in England for the mandatory ground).
Can I claim unpaid bills too?
Yes, if the agreement makes them the tenant’s responsibility. They are claimed with the rent.
Does a WhatsApp message count as a formal demand?
It may prove you asked, but for proceedings use a method that certifies content and delivery.
From contract to payment, without chasing anyone
Create the due date, add your client’s email and we request the payment. Once paid, the instalment is marked automatically and you both get the receipt.
Start with iSign Payments →