Guía para propietarios de viviendas: Qué hacer si el inquilino no paga el alquiler

Non-payment of rent can be one of the most challenging aspects of being a residencial landlord. Whether due to temporary financial difficulty or ongoing neglect, landlords must respond carefully and legally to protect their rights and potentially salvage the tenancy. This guide walks you through practical and legal steps you can take. 

Hable con su inquilino 

El primer paso, y el más importante, es establecer la comunicación. Póngase en contacto con el inquilino para saber por qué no ha pagado el alquiler. Puede tratarse de un retraso puntual o de un indicio de problemas financieros más graves. Una conversación empática y sin confrontaciones puede ayudar mucho a encontrar una solución y a mantener una relación positiva entre propietario e inquilino. 

Hablar con el avalista 

If your tenant has a guarantor, contact them as soon as the rent arrears begin. The guarantor is legally responsible for covering unpaid rent and may not be aware that the tenant is in default. Prompt communication could resolve the issue more quickly without further legal steps. 

Póngase en contacto con su proveedor de seguros de alquiler o con el sistema de fianzas de alquiler 

If you have landlord insurance that includes rent guarantee cover, notify your provider immediately. Many insurers require early reporting of arrears to validate a claim. Similarly, while tenancy deposit schemes don’t cover unpaid rent, it’s wise to understand how the deposit may be applied should the tenancy end with arrears outstanding. 

Considere la posibilidad de ofrecer a su inquilino un plan de amortización 

If your tenant is experiencing short-term difficulties, propose a structured repayment plan. This demonstrates goodwill and could lead to the recovery of the full amount over time. Ensure that any plan is documented in writing, with clear terms about dates and amounts. Be realistic and assess whether the tenant’s financial situation supports this option. 

Buscar asesoramiento jurídico 

If communication fails or arrears increase, it’s essential to seek professional legal advice. A solicitor experienced in landlord-tenant law can guide you through the formal procedures for rent recovery or eviction, ensuring you comply with the law and avoid costly mistakes. 

Considere la posibilidad de tomar medidas para reclamar la posesión de su propiedad 

When rent arrears exceed two months, and no repayment plan is agreed upon or maintained, landlords may need to begin possession proceedings. This involves formal notice and possibly court action. The goal is either to recover the propiedad or prompt the tenant to vacate and settle the arrears. 

Notificación de desahucio 

You may serve a Section 8 notice under the Housing Act 1988 if the tenant is in rent arrears. Alternatively, a Sección 21 notice may be used to regain possession at the end of a fixed-term tenancy, without needing to prove fault. The notice must follow strict legal requirements—any error can result in dismissal by the court. Legal counsel or landlord associations can help ensure notices are served correctly. 

¿Qué medidas puede tomar para evitar que los inquilinos se retrasen en el pago del alquiler en el futuro? 

While no approach guarantees trouble-free tenancies, landlords can take proactive steps to minimise the risk of rent arrears. 

Analice minuciosamente a los posibles inquilinos, incluida la comprobación de su solvencia. 

Always vet potential tenants by conducting reference checks, including credit histories, employment verification, and previous landlord references. A robust tenant screening process can identify red flags and give you confidence in your new tenant’s ability to pay. 

Pida un avalista 

Requesting a guarantor offers a safety net. The guarantor legally agrees to cover rent if the tenant cannot. This is especially advisable for students, first-time renters, or individuals with unstable income. 

Mantenga su propiedad en buen estado 

Una vivienda bien mantenida anima a los inquilinos a tratarla con respeto y a permanecer en ella a largo plazo. Un mantenimiento descuidado puede dar lugar a disputas, retención del alquiler o rescisión anticipada del contrato de arrendamiento. Realice inspecciones periódicas y responda con prontitud a las solicitudes de reparación. 

Consultas 

If you have issues regarding a tenant who is rent arrears then contact Senior Litigios Partner, David Burns on 0207 467 5751 or via email on D.Burns@rfblegal.co.uk.