Once received, your rental provider or real estate agency will let you know if they are willing to accept the payment plan proposal. Don’t be afraid to enquire if you haven’t heard back within 3-5 business day.
Your rental provider might not accept your payment plan or might only accept full payment upfront. You don’t have to pay the full amount upfront if you can’t afford it.
You don’t have to move out if your rental provider doesn’t accept your payment plan. If your rental provider doesn’t accept your payment plan, they might apply to have a decision about your rental made by VCAT.
At VCAT, you should show the letter you sent as proof of your payment plan offer. VCAT will often look favourably on renters who try to negotiate a payment plan with rental providers early on.
Depending on the reasons you are behind in rent, VCAT can make a payment plan arrangement on your behalf (even if the rental provider doesn’t agree). It’s important to go to your VCAT hearing if you can because VCAT can make an order against you even if you’re not there.
You can read more about what to expect at VCAT in Dear Landlord.
