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Guide5 min read
How to Write a Letter of Demand for Unpaid Rent
Before taking a tenant to court for unpaid rent, you should send a formal letter of demand. This creates a legal record and often resolves the matter without court action.
Key Takeaways
- A letter of demand is a formal written request for payment
- It creates a legal paper trail before court action
- Give the tenant a reasonable deadline (7-14 days)
- Send by registered mail or WhatsApp with read receipts
- Keep a copy of the letter and proof of delivery
What to include in the letter
A letter of demand for unpaid rent should include the property address, the amount owed, the months it covers, the payment deadline, and the consequences of non-payment.
- Your name and contact details
- Tenant's name and property address
- Exact amount owed and months outstanding
- Payment deadline (7-14 days)
- Warning of legal action if not paid
How to send it
Send the letter in a way that creates proof of delivery. Registered mail, email with read receipt, or WhatsApp with blue ticks all work. Keep screenshots and delivery confirmations.
- Registered mail: keep the tracking number
- Email: request read receipt
- WhatsApp: screenshot the blue ticks
- In person: get a signed acknowledgement
What happens if they ignore it?
If the tenant ignores the letter of demand, your next step is to apply for an eviction order at the Magistrate's Court, or to take them to the Small Claims Court for the debt (if under R20,000).
- Small Claims Court for amounts under R20,000
- Magistrate's Court for eviction
- You can claim both the debt and eviction simultaneously
- Legal costs can be added to the claim in some cases
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