Heartwarming landlord’s message to tenant gives an example of humanity in times of isolation
Faith in humanity restored! A considerate UK landlord sent a hartening text to his tenant, showing that empathy still exists, even in today’s difficult times.
As people are forced to stay home during the coronavirus lockdown, paying rent can become a serious problem. Thousands of residents are facing severe complications and uncertainty around keeping both their jobs and their homes. Luckily, many thoughtful landlords understand the urgency of the current situation and make sure their tenants don’t feel pressured.
A perfect example of an empathetic person that takes the outbreak in mind when it comes to his occupant is Chris, Amy Gledhill’s landlord.
The actor and comedian, Amy, took her story to Twitter earlier this week, sharing the touching message she received from Chris.
My landlord just text me this and I'm sobbing. LANDLORDS, TAKE NOTE. If you're in a position to say this to someone, please do. When we can't rely on the government, we've got to help each other. #COVID19 #rentfreeze #landlords pic.twitter.com/FuIi1JIU0C
— Amy Gledhill (@ThatGledhill) March 17, 2020
The message Chris sent to his tenant Amy gives an amazing example of how we can be supportive and considerate, even in these crazy, uncertain times.
He genuinely encourages her not to worry about losing her home and even offers his help if she needs it. In the message, Chris wrote:
“Hi Amy,
Given everything that seems to be going on with Covid 19 I wanted to let you know that whatever happens with your work I want you to feel secure in the house.
We can work something out if your circumstances change and I hope you know we’re approachable. We’re living in a crazy time so take care of yourself and your family.”
Amy’s reaction clearly shows how much this text meant to her. Moreover, she also encourages other landlords to follow Chris’s genuine response to the outbreak.
“My landlord just text me this and I’m sobbing. LANDLORDS, TAKE NOTE. If you’re in a position to say this to someone, please do. When we can’t rely on the government, we’ve got to help each other.”
Amongst the thousands of people who loved Amy’s story was another UK landlord, Clarie Tripp.
She was impressed by Chris’s sincere message, and she shared this inspired her to do the same for her tenants.
Your reaction to that text inspired me to send a similar text to our tenants. I assumed they’d know we were reasonable landlords but I realised that’s not a given. It’s nice to be in a position to alleviate some of the stress.
— Claire Tripp (@chicaguapa) March 17, 2020
Clarie’s comment on Amy’s tweet was as touching, as the initial message itself:
“Your reaction to that text inspired me to send a similar text to our tenants. I assumed they’d know we were reasonable landlords but I realised that’s not a given. It’s nice to be in a position to alleviate some of the stress.”
In the days following Amy’s post about her landlord’s note, the UK government has announced a radical set of measures to protect renters and landlords affected by the virus.
As a result, landlords will not be able to start proceedings to evict tenants for at least three months.
In an official press release about the complete ban on evictions, the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government states:
“This will alleviate the pressure on landlords, who will be concerned about meeting mortgage payments themselves, and will mean no unnecessary pressure is put on their tenants as a result. At the end of this period, landlords and tenants will be expected to work together to establish an affordable repayment plan, taking into account tenants’ individual circumstances.”
Undoubtedly, the plan aims to help tenants and landlords to handle the current situation.
However, many residents have argued that these measures are not enough.
Nevertheless, Chris’s message to his tenant Amy shows an incredible example of how people can still be caring and empathetic in times of mass confusion. Hopefully, other landlords will follow his footsteps and will work together with their tenants for a better future.
