What Is a Notice to Pay Rent or Quit?
A pay or quit notice is a legal document landlords use when tenants miss rent payments. This notice gives tenants a final chance to catch up on rent before facing removal.
The notice sets a clear deadline. Tenants must pay all back rent by this date or move out.
When Landlords Can Issue This Notice
You can send this notice when:
- Rent is late beyond the grace period
- Tenant has missed multiple payments
- Previous payment plans have failed
- State laws allow the notice type
Check local laws first. Each state has different rules about timing and required notice periods.
Key Parts of the Notice
Tenant Information
- Full legal names of all tenants
- Complete property address
- Unit number if applicable
Payment Details
- Total amount owed
- Breakdown of each missed payment
- Late fees if allowed by lease
- Date rent was originally due
Deadline Information
- Exact date payment is due
- Time of day payment must be received
- Where to make payment
- Accepted payment methods
Legal Consequences
- Clear statement about removal process
- Reference to state and local laws
- Contact information for questions
Template Format
NOTICE TO PAY RENT OR QUIT
TO: [Tenant Name(s)] PROPERTY: [Full Address] DATE: [Current Date]
You owe the following rent for the above property:
| Period | Amount Due |
| [Month/Year] | $[Amount] |
| Late Fees | $[Amount] |
| TOTAL | $[Total Amount] |
DEMAND FOR PAYMENT
You must pay the full amount of $[Total] within [Number] days of receiving this notice.
Payment must be received by: [Date] at [Time]
Pay at: [Address or online portal] Accepted methods: [Cash, check, money order, online payment]
IF YOU FAIL TO PAY
If you do not pay by the deadline, we will start legal action to remove you from the property. You may owe additional court costs and attorney fees.
YOUR RIGHTS
You have the right to contest this notice in court. Contact a lawyer or tenant rights group for help.
LANDLORD CONTACT [Name] [Phone] [Email] [Address]
Date Served: ___________ Method of Service: ___________ Served By: ___________
Serving the Notice Properly
Valid Service Methods
- Hand delivery to tenant
- Certified mail with return receipt
- Posting on the door (if allowed)
- Email (if lease permits)
Documentation Required
- Keep copies of all notices
- Photo proof of door posting
- Postal receipts for mailed notices
- Written record of hand delivery
Service Rules by State
- Some states require specific service methods
- Certain states need multiple service attempts
- Weekend and holiday service may be restricted
- Check local court rules for requirements
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect Amounts
- Double-check all calculations
- Include only valid charges
- Follow lease terms for late fees
- Don’t add unauthorized penalties
Wrong Deadlines
- Use correct notice periods for your state
- Count days properly (business vs calendar)
- Account for weekends and holidays
- Give adequate time as required by law
Poor Documentation
- Keep detailed payment records
- Save all tenant communications
- Document service of notice
- Maintain lease and payment history
State-Specific Requirements
Notice Periods
- 3-day notice states: Arizona, California, Nevada
- 5-day notice states: Illinois, Ohio, Texas
- 10-day notice states: New York, Florida
- 14-day notice states: Washington, Oregon
Special Rules
Some states require:
- Grace periods before serving notice
- Specific language in the notice
- Multiple service attempts
- Court filing within certain timeframes
What Happens Next
If Tenant Pays
- Accept full payment only
- Document receipt of payment
- Continue normal landlord-tenant relationship
- Keep records of late payment
If Tenant Doesn’t Pay
- File unlawful detainer lawsuit
- Serve court papers properly
- Attend all court hearings
- Follow court orders exactly
If Tenant Moves Out
- Inspect property condition
- Handle security deposit per state law
- Document any damages
- Return deposit within legal timeframe
Tips for Landlords
Before Sending Notice
- Review lease terms carefully
- Check state and local laws
- Gather all payment records
- Try informal contact first
Communication Best Practices
- Stay professional in all interactions
- Keep written records of conversations
- Don’t accept partial payments after serving notice
- Refer legal questions to an attorney
Avoiding Problems
- Use clear, simple language
- Follow exact legal requirements
- Serve notices promptly when rent is late
- Maintain consistent enforcement policies
Tenant Rights and Resources
Common Tenant Protections
- Right to cure (pay and stay)
- Protection from retaliatory actions
- Due process in court proceedings
- Reasonable notice requirements
Where Tenants Can Get Help
- Local legal aid organizations
- Tenant rights groups
- State housing authorities
- Pro bono legal clinics
Legal Disclaimer
This template provides general information only. Laws vary by state and change over time. Always consult with a local attorney before taking legal action.
Real estate laws are complex. What works in one state may not be legal in another. Professional legal advice protects both landlords and tenants.
Additional Resources
For Landlords
- State landlord-tenant law summaries
- Local housing authority websites
- Property management association guides
- Legal forms providers
For Tenants
- State tenant rights handbooks
- Housing counseling agencies
- Legal aid society websites
- Court self-help centers
Remember: Following proper procedures protects everyone involved. When in doubt, seek professional legal guidance.
