Coronavirus: April rent is due, but landlords cannot evict tenants

DAYTON — April rent payments are coming at a time when property owners do not have the power to evict tenants who do not pay.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, landlords can send out eviction notices, but because courts are closed there will be no evictions.

“We are all in unprecedented times right now with landlords, with tenants,” Charlie Samaan said. “I think we’re all in the same boat.”

Samaan owns rental properties throughout the Miami Valley.

“I think it’s important that landlords are patient with their tenants,” Samaan said.

He said he will not evict anyone for two to three months. He is also waiving late fees.

“I’m also being very patient with some of the tenants that you know need some additional help,” Samaan said.

He, like other landlords has his own bills to pay.

“Bills still come in. Mortgages still have to be paid. Electric has to be paid. Water, same thing,” Samaan said.

He is also still paying his real estate staff.

“We wanted to make sure that they’re taken care of,” Samaan said.

He explained, if tenants do not keep up with rent payments, it could impact the building they are living in.

“If the tenant doesn’t pay, the landlord doesn’t pay his bills as well too. There’s a possibility of getting foreclosed on as well,” Samaan said.

Overall, he said it is crucial tenants keep up communication with their landlords if they are going to have trouble paying rent.

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