No rent due to family death

My Tenents rent for month 7 of 12 month lease is due today. Just had text from them to say her dad has died, rent will be paid on 21st. They are non nationals so I suppose they have been caught financially having to return for funeral and probaly not being paid while away. Under the circumstances I'm thinking let it go but obviously a bit concerned that the 21st will come an go without rent and will then have to start the 14 day notice followed by the 28 day notice etc. Am I being naieve letting it go ? or should I send the 14 day notice now as I depend on the rent to pay the mortgage. Any comments appreciated. Thanks.

Would you not talk to them first to assess the situation first hand?

Is this the first time they have been late? At least they texted you, which is one point in their favour. I would have a chat and point out that you do need the money to pay the mortgage so you definately can't allow anything past the 21st.

Not sure if you could give them a letter saying you will allow them until 21st, but failure to pay on that days will result in notice being effective immediately. Maybe PRTB can help with this, but not sure if they will gove you an answer over the phone.

Is this the first time they have been late ?

They moved in on 7th July,with 1 months deposit and 1 months rent in advance. Aug rent was 6 days late, Sept rent was 18 days late, sent the 14 days notice on this occasion and rent was paid 2 days before this expired. Oct - Dec all paid on time.

I wold certainly give them the benefit of the doubt.

Like - the overwhelming majority simply wouldn't make up that kind of lie.

Worst case scenario you still have their montsh deposit.

I'm not suggesting they are making it up, just a bit concerned especially after the late payments of Aug/Sept. I think I will phone tomorrow and let it go on this occasion but rent must be in my A/c on 21st as promised,I cant afford to pay it either, however I think I would rather loose 2 wks rent than my faith in mankind. Thanks for the replies.

I would say give them benefit of the doubt but you will need to let them know that you will need the rent by the 21st.