Preserve Strong Communities with Housing Mediation

Diamond had been a tenant in Monique’s building for several years. Monique and Diamond had a good relationship, and Monique agreed that Diamond had been a good tenant until she recently fell behind on rent. Diamond did not pay a portion of rent for March, and no rent in April or May. Prior to mediation, Diamond finished paying March and April’s rent, but still owed for May.

Monique and Diamond had a previously existing agreement that allowed Diamond to pay her rent in installments that included a small late fee. Installments were $427.50 every two weeks starting at the beginning of each month, for a total of $855/month.

In mediation, the parties gave initial statements to explain why they were in court. The mediator asked both parties about their relationship. Monique said she had always been happy to work with Diamond because she was one of her good tenants. Monique explained that she has not had any noise complaints or other issues with Diamond like she frequently has with other tenants. Diamond was proud of her history of being a good tenant and her relationship with Monique.

Mediation gave the parties a chance to discuss how to move forward. Monique said she needed the rent for May and for Diamond to be on time moving forward. Diamond explained that she recently lost her job and was having financial difficulties; she tried to communicate with Monique through texts, but felt that communication had failed. Diamond recently started a new job, and was eager to discuss a way to catch up on her rent. Both women were grateful to have a chance to discuss their situation in person, with help from the mediator.

The mediator helped the parties discuss their options. Diamond proposed a schedule that would allow her to increase her installment amount to make up the rent she owed for May, and that would be realistic moving forward. Monique felt that Diamond had violated her trust, and requested proof that Diamond was working again. Diamond agreed to work with her employer to provide Monique an employment verification. Both parties assisted with the drafting of the agreement, confirming the details of the payment arrangements. Diamond expressed relief at being able to stay in an apartment where she felt safe and comfortable, and that was a nice home for her children. Monique was relieved to be able to retain a good tenant in her building.