[KY] I have a tenant not paying rent. How should I proceed?


October 22, 2025 15 5

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I have a tenant not paying rent in Lexington, Kentucky. What are my rights as a landlord?

I understand dealing with a tenant not paying rent can be frustrating. Have you served the tenant with any notices regarding the unpaid rent?

Not yet.

Is the lease agreement with your tenant up to date and legally binding?

I think so.

Yes.

Elizabeth

Hi there! Welcome to AskALawyer. My name is Liz, and I’ve been an attorney for more than a decade. I’m here to assist with your legal concerns.

So I can best help — is it a fixed-term or month-to-month lease?

Month-to-month lease.

Can you tell me the steps? I think I need to give him an eviction notice, right? Before I can file an eviction?

Elizabeth

Thank you for clarifying that. Have you given the tenant any notices to pay or quit?

Not yet.

Elizabeth

The Notice to Pay or Quit can be the first step in the eviction process. (KY Rev Stat § 383.660(2))

With a tenant who does not pay, you have the right to evict. The eviction process can remove the tenant, and you may also collect the rent owed and potentially any late fees specified in the lease.

Elizabeth

Have you considered proceeding with eviction?

I think that is what will eventually happen. The tenant is not responding to my text messages.

What is the best way to send the notice?

Elizabeth

You would usually need to perform what’s called service of process. This involves having someone who is not related to the case, but is over 18, hand-deliver the notice to the tenant.

Another valid option is to post the notice on the tenant’s door and then send a copy via certified mail.

Ok, that makes sense. Thank you!