What happens if my tenant stops paying rent?
2 min read · Updated 12 October 2026
Send a friendly reminder first. If it isn’t paid, send a written notice giving the tenant time to pay. For CPA leases that’s 20 business days. If it’s still unpaid, the owner may cancel the lease.
Eviction can only happen through a court order under the PIE Act. Never change the locks, remove belongings or cut off electricity or water. That’s unlawful and can be reversed by a court.
In Porchlight: reminders and the breach notice are logged, and you can export a pack for your attorney.
General information, not legal or tax advice. For your situation, speak to an attorney or a tax practitioner.