Can I Ask My Landlord for Rent Reduction? — Yes, Here's How

Rental troubles are never ideal to face, but sometimes they're inevitable. Paying a high rent can especially be worrisome, particularly during times of hardship. You may be wondering, "?" if you are struggling to pay what you owe.

DoNotPay is here to answer your question and guide you through the process of making the request to your landlord. We are here to assist you and reduce some of the stress you're feeling. You don't have to take this on alone.

Process for Requesting a Rent Reduction

The method you utilize for should depend on how well you know your landlord.

Direct Approach

If you're very familiar with them and have a great relationship, it may be worth asking in person. Simply talk to them about what's going on and why you need the amount lowered for a while, and they may be likely to offer a helping hand.

Write a Formal Letter

If you do not know your landlord well, it may be wise to draft a letter instead. This gives you time to carefully consider what you want to say and ensures you can explain yourself in a respectful, non-emotional way. The landlord may be willing to accept your offer if you have made a formal request in writing.

Tips for Making a Convincing Plea

To start, you should consider how long you truly feel you may need the reduction. Not many landlords are willing to keep your rent payments at a lower amount forever. If you ask for a short-term, solution, however, they may be more likely to oblige.

You should have a plan laid out so your landlord knows exactly what to expect. It will help them see that you're serious about this arrangement and have steps in place to get back to the true amount. Make sure you tell them:

The reason you require a lower price.	Your landlord might feel more empathetic if they know what you’re going through.
Steps you are taking to enhance your income, such as applying for new jobs or applying for universal credit.	They might feel more confident to give you a breathing room if they know you’re taking action.
The amount you wish your rent to be lowered.	Be direct.
The number of months you believe this arrangement is necessary.	Give them an idea so they know what to expect.
The fact that you will keep them frequently updated on the situation and promise to pay what it is owed.	This offers a clear and transparent relationship between you and the landlord.

What Happens if My Landlord Does Not Accept the Requested Reduction?

A reduction in rent is not a tenant's right. Your landlord is not obligated to accept your request, and many won't if you have already been behind in the past. If they do not accept, you may have to consider other options. Find ways to reduce your expenses elsewhere, if possible.

Otherwise, it may be wise to ask for an early release from your lease so you can find a less expensive rental. Even if the landlord does not agree, you can send a notice of early leave and terminate the contract anyway. You will still owe what is left and your arrears, but you can work that out down the line. You will also not get your security deposit back, so that is something to consider.

Get Your Rent Reduced With DoNotPay's Guidance

Rather than struggling, wondering, "can I ask my landlord for a rent reduction" and "how do I ask?" let DoNotPay make the effort for you. We will draft a demand letter requesting that your rent get reduced so you can better afford your dwelling. We'll have it handled in a few simple steps.

Search for and open the Landlord Protection product on DoNotPay.
Select which issue applies to you.
Answer a simple set of questions so our chatbot can collect the necessary information to create your demand letter.
Choose whether you want DoNotPay to send the demand letter to your landlord or roommate on your behalf. If you already tried sending a demand letter and it didn't work, we can help you start the small claims court process.

Please be aware that our efforts may not be enough to entice them to change your rent amount. We will plead your case in a polite, yet a convincing way to improve the chances, but we can make no promises that they will oblige.