How to negotiate rent with your current landlord
It could be a hassle for your landlord to find someone who will pay more.
You can negotiate over rent when your fixed term ends.
You can also ask for a temporary reduction if you experience money problems.
You need to approach things differently depending on whether you:
have already missed rent payments
think you might be late with rent or not be able to pay it
But in both situations, try and show you have:
a long term proposal to pay the rent
been reliable at paying rent previously
What to do if you have rent arrears
Make rent your priority payment.
Find out how to deal with rent arrears if your debts are increasing.
Your landlord may be more likely to agree to a temporary rent reduction if you:
show you are working out how to pay them back
have a repayment proposal
Our template letters can help you with what to say to your landlord if you have arrears.
How to negotiate a short term rent reduction
Let your landlord know if you have problems such as:
losing your job
increasing energy costs
universal credit payment delays
Tell them if you will have more income soon, for example if you have:
a new job or interview
applied for universal credit or other help
Our template letter shows you what to say if you need to pay less rent for a while.
Proof of what you agree with your landlord
Keep a record of what you agree about rent or repayment plans for arrears.
Make sure you are both clear about:
how much rent you will be paying
how long the new arrangement is for
if or when you will have to start paying more
if you have to pay back the difference
If your landlord agrees in writing to a permanent reduction then that becomes your new rent.
Last updated: 30 May 2022