Apartment landlords typically have no legal obligation to allow a grace period on rent. In fact, a landlord may offer what is referred to as a "pay or quit" notice as soon as the day after a missed payment. However, many landlords do provide a grace period up to five days before taking such actions against tenants. These terms are usually spelled out in your agreement.
A Price for Being Late
The grace period may or may not apply to late fees. In most states, landlords have the legal right to charge reasonable late fees after a missed payment. Your landlord may charge such a fee for each day missed following the payment date, or following the end of the grace period.
References
- NOLO: Signing a Lease or Rental Agreement FAQ: Do Landlords Have to Allow a Grace Period for Late Rent Before They Charge Late Fees?
- NOLO: Grace Periods and Rent Due Dates
- U.S. Department of Labor. "FAQs on COBRA Continuation Health Coverage for Workers," Page 8. Accessed July 25, 2020.
- HealthCare.gov. "Premium Payments, Grace Periods & Termination." Accessed July 25, 2020.
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