Recessions are tough. A tenant may have accepted a lease in good faith with the expectation of continued income, but later discovers that circumstances change. Rent that was previously easy to pay can suddenly become difficult, or even impossible, to pay. As a result, many tenants consider asking for a rent reduction under such difficult conditions.

Considering asking for a rent reduction is not the same as asking for or getting a rent reduction. It takes a combination of honesty, planning, courage and desperation to be able to successfully negotiate a rent reduction. If you need to lower your rent, there are some essential tips on how to approach your landlord with your application.

Landlords often find that granting a rent decrease is preferable rather than forcing an existing tenant to move out and then incurring the expense of finding a replacement tenant. Tenants who can negotiate a rent decrease also save the time and expense of searching for other rentals.

While no landlord wants to hear a tenant say they can’t afford rent as previously negotiated, during prolonged economic downturns, landlords are often willing to be flexible with existing tenants. If you cannot pay the rent, it is best to be honest with the landlord, so be prepared to reach out to him as soon as you learn of your situation.

When you meet with your landlord, explain why your income has dropped. Your employer may have cut your hours, cut your pay, or both. Avoid being emotional about the situation; discuss this logically with your landlord. Experienced homeowners will have weathered economic downturns sooner. Chances are high that they will understand and maybe even appreciate that you reach out to them as soon as you realize your income is declining.

Especially during prolonged recessions, you may find it helpful to ask about rental rates for similar units in your area. Providing current rental rate comparisons to your landlord can give you an additional bargaining chip.

If your research shows that other tenants in your area are paying lower rates for similar units, this can be helpful in negotiating a lower rent. Landlords will generally want to keep some income rather than lose all income from their rental unit.

Be sure to negotiate directly with your landlord. If the complex uses a management company, negotiate with the highest ranking person available to you. Have proof of why your income is low on hand, and be sure to remind them that you have always paid your rent on time in the past.