ith rent due for many WAmericans for the first time since the coronavirus outbreak began across the United States, people throughout the country are urging federal, state and local governments to put in place an order keeping evictions from happening. Many people have filed for unemployment during this crisis. This presents a problem as landlords are also needing help at this time. If tenants are allowed to have extensions on their rent, the landlords could be forced to sell their properties.

#RentZero and #RentRelief are both very visible on social media urging President Donald Trump and local politicians to help protect renters while they are being told to stay at home and social distance or quarantine if exposed to COVID-19. This has caused many to lose their jobs and they are now struggling to pay their rent.

The Federal Government has issued a 120-day moratorium on evictions from federally subsidized housing or from a property from a federally backed mortgage loan. A USA Today analysis shows that at least 34 states have issued broader moratoriums on evictions as of Tuesday.

Several places in Ponca City, including Paladin Apartments, Copper Ridge Apartments and Timbers North, most landlords and apartment managers are taking every tenant on a case-by-case basis.

They are working with people, but do want to stress that is still very important to pay your rent and keep your head above water. The key is to communicate, let your landlord or apartment manager know your particular situation and they will most likely not be too critical of you in a time like this. Certain places are waiving late fees and accepting partial payments during the pandemic.

“We do have our office doors closed, but we are still leasing at this time and seeing people by appointment only,” said Michelle Kolberg, assistant manager of Copper Ridge Apartments.

Offices are still open at Paladin and Timbers North apartment complexes and have decided to stay open until further notice.