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Caller: 'The landlord don't want hear nothing about COVID-19'

- Premier Andrew A. Fahie reiterated plea for landlords to have leniency with tenants
The Government of the Virgin Islands has been working on ways to assist both tenants and landlords during the COVIOD-19 pandemic. Photo: Go Study Australia
Premier Andrew A. Fahie told a female caller that his government is cognizant that many Virgin Islanders would face financial hardships and will put measures in place to handle it. Photo: Facebook/File
Premier Andrew A. Fahie told a female caller that his government is cognizant that many Virgin Islanders would face financial hardships and will put measures in place to handle it. Photo: Facebook/File
She was at the time calling in on a special call-in edition of 'Honestly Speaking' which aired on Wednesday, April 1, 2020, on national radio and streamed on social media, over how she would get finances to pay her bills during the government-sanctioned 14-day curfew in effect until April 16, 2020. Photo: Facebook/File
She was at the time calling in on a special call-in edition of 'Honestly Speaking' which aired on Wednesday, April 1, 2020, on national radio and streamed on social media, over how she would get finances to pay her bills during the government-sanctioned 14-day curfew in effect until April 16, 2020. Photo: Facebook/File
BAUGHERS BAY, Tortola, VI - A female caller on ZBVI 780AM, during a special interactive session with Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) and Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Carvin Malone (AL), had complained that when it comes to COVID-19, her landlord is not accepting it as an excuse for non-payment of rent.

She was at the time calling in on a special edition of 'Honestly Speaking', aired on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 on ZBVI 780AM radio and streamed on social media, over how she would get finances to pay her bills during the Cabinet-sanctioned 14-day curfew in effect until April 16, 2020.

Landlords want their $$$ - Caller 

"I'm a person who would go with my basket and sell my stuff... due to the COVID-19, I cannot do so. I have bills to pay like rent and stuff like that," the unidentified caller said.

"The landlord don't want to hear nothing about COVID-19, they just want their rent money... so how I suppose to go about there?" she asked.

According to Premier Fahie, his government is aware many Virgin Islanders will face financial hardship and it will be putting measures in place to handle it.

'We have some packages that [are] coming, to try to help persons who are laid off and those who have certain financial hardships... so you will have to wait until that time comes to get to hear what those will be," he urged the caller. 

Landlords should work with tenants  

In a direct plea to landlords, Hon Fahie begged for leniency with tenants given that the COVID-19 pandemic is one that is global and has created financial hardships.

"What I would ask the landlords in general... please find how to work with the people, and it can't be just a regular help, it has to be an extraordinary help."

"The entire world is in an economic strain right now, not only the COVID-19 but it is a major social issue around the world and we have to find out how to help," he said.

The Premier said he is also aware that some landlords would owe the banks, and as such, Government has engaged those institutions on behalf of landlords.

Banks must give landlords 'a break' - Premier 

"That's why we've been speaking with the banks to give landlords with their loans a break. They have certain things in place but we asking them to stretch it a litter further than where it is because all of us have to take a loss somehow or the other with this." 

Premier Fahie said more information will be coming on the initiatives but the first priority of the government remains to keep everyone alive and prevent the spread of the virus. 

40 Responses to “Caller: 'The landlord don't want hear nothing about COVID-19'”

  • yea (06/04/2020, 13:52) Like (10) Dislike (3) Reply
    The green bank said they do not have anything Oi n place; hence, they will be deducting their mortgage on the due date. I think that stimulus money should go directly to the landlords because those individuals will not pay their rents.
    • SMH#1 (07/04/2020, 07:00) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
      The landlords should give the tenants a break right? After they get the break, the landlord might be out of this money. Things didn't improve, but the landlord must pay the bank eventually, while the tenant moves on with no responsibility for payments. How does this work? I am in agreement with giving a break, but the landlords have to be careful as well.
  • GREED (06/04/2020, 13:59) Like (38) Dislike (13) Reply
    Some landlords are too wicked and greedy. They hardly fix anything in the apartments and still collect the full rent. There is a husband and wife that live up huntum's ghut who are beyond greedy, but it will not last forever.
    • YY (06/04/2020, 21:49) Like (5) Dislike (1) Reply
      Good reason to find another place to live.
      Staying and not paying wont work.
    • move (07/04/2020, 13:44) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      You have the choice to move out, but can't expect to live rent free they are forcing you to be there.
  • Truth that.. (06/04/2020, 14:00) Like (18) Dislike (3) Reply
    Im overseas.. Came out March 20th.. was to return March 25th before the place got shut down without any warning.. . I called my landlord to explain the situation. Landlord cant understand tell me to get somebody to pay for me until i come down...thats not possible.. and im sure im not alone.. Just hope my lock aint change... Dont kno when im going to get back...
  • Tru Dat! (06/04/2020, 14:01) Like (35) Dislike (2) Reply
    These landlords should be aware that the days of few vacant properties and many people (who can afford to pay) looking is soon at an end. You might be better off taking care of the people who have historically always (or almost always) paid on time. When you lose a good tenant you don't know what you will get next time. A little compassion will go along way in the future.
    • Off Island.. (06/04/2020, 14:17) Like (5) Dislike (10) Reply
      Whenever things open up and i return lsndlord get pay .. simple.. i aint paying no late fees...After the 5th is late fee.. aint paying that.
    • land lord (07/04/2020, 10:03) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      I AM A LAND LORD I AGREE WITH YOU NO ONE KNOWS WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS .
  • Strupez (06/04/2020, 14:08) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
    These landlords need to relax... They are going to get their money, my living boyfriend went on vacation he usually pay the rent.. He was to return the 29th March but the lick down keep him out.. i work in a Restaurant, We got close down since 1st week in March... Stop harrassing me... U will get your money.. As soon as my boyfriend come back he will sought u out....
    • @strupez (06/04/2020, 15:06) Like (18) Dislike (8) Reply
      You hope.
      Evidently your name is not on the rental agreement.
      Your " living" boy friend has no financial obligation for you.
      Suggest you find another trading partner for your financial needs while he is away,
      Your poverty wont be ending any time soon.
      Land lords eat too and have expenses not met with trade.
    • @strupez (07/04/2020, 07:13) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
      Maybe if you be pleasant and go speak to the landlord in a civilized way, he might give you a break. You are coming across as if they have to wait until your boyfriend gets back for payment. Well they can simply tell you to walk because the rental agreement seems to be between your boyfriend and the landlord.
    • @strupez (07/04/2020, 09:33) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
      Your attitude stinks! The landlord needs to lock you out and then go running to Andrew Trump.
  • tretretrete (06/04/2020, 14:10) Like (21) Dislike (7) Reply
    Cant tell the bank tenant aint pay..
  • enough (06/04/2020, 14:56) Like (32) Dislike (1) Reply
    I think it is unacceptable to expect landlords who have to pay the bank to dismiss rent. If the Government ask the banks to defer April rent; and they agree, then Government can stress no rent same way. People have to be realistic. I have a bank loan, working or not I still have to pay it.
  • legal team (06/04/2020, 15:17) Like (35) Dislike (1) Reply
    I am not a landlord but I always try to imagine how landlords get their apartments..
    First,the landlord has to secure a loan from the bank..

    Second,the landlord has to spend the money to build an apartment.

    The landlord has to pay that loan monthly..

    So to say that a landlord is wicked and greedy,in situations like this, I disagree..

    Some time in life,we have to save for a rainy day..

    Some people would squander their money on all kind of things,instead of saving for if things turn bad.

    Unless the bank decided to work something out with the landlord,the landlord cant accept no rent payment.

    One love BVI
  • Global Governance (06/04/2020, 15:18) Like (17) Dislike (1) Reply
    https://www.activistpost.com/2020/04/henry-kissinger-bill-gates-call-for-mass-vaccination-global-governance.html

    They sold us out
  • Basic Instincts (06/04/2020, 15:19) Like (6) Dislike (11) Reply
    Some of the landlords are just selfish, heartless and greedy. When Irmaria past and the banks were giving them a break, some of them were still collecting rent. Then when it was time to fix the place, some of them either dragged their feet or up to now have not done anything, but still want to collect rent. Now whilst this isn't a natural disaster, it is still a global issue and the ppl are still the same. I wonder if they(landlords) will put them (tenants) out during the lockdown? And if they do, how will this govt deal with it? Cant keep pleading with ppl, some ppl just naturally bad and probably immune to prayer.
  • Guest (06/04/2020, 15:21) Like (11) Dislike (5) Reply
    bank forgiving a monthly loan has nothing to do with tenant paying rent. landlords have other expenses aside from loan. there is no contract between landlord and tenant stating that rent will be forgiven if loan forgiven. some tenants are something. look to take advantage yet do nothing for landlord but complain
  • Exactly enough (06/04/2020, 15:27) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    For when the bank go with ur house and all u invest u hear them stupid tolian .people. . ..in all this now I hearing no Tolian this or no island man this ....u see the nature some people.......only wen it fit them hmmmmm.and I am not from here ...hmmm
    • @ Exactly enough.. im missing something (06/04/2020, 17:29) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      Most of the rent issues im reading are from people who got stuck off Island... I aint hear no one say that they wont pay their rent... u have to admit its ruff for some people.. im sure them too will try to pay their rent..
  • Be real (06/04/2020, 15:28) Like (10) Dislike (0) Reply
    even though the bank deferred loan payment for this period ,at the end of the day,those payments still have to be met.the bank need their money.i understand some might not have the money now,but what about when you have it?
  • universal basic income (06/04/2020, 15:57) Like (0) Dislike (3) Reply
    I'm no socialist but... u.b.i. looking pretty nice right now
  • this is crazy (06/04/2020, 16:06) Like (15) Dislike (5) Reply
    People have enough time last month to pay their rent come on d used d money e make useless shopping stop abusing d system man
  • Avaricious (06/04/2020, 17:04) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
    The Premier's sentiments are kind and reflect his faith. Unfortunately, some of his constituents worship an entirely different god.
  • st Kitts (06/04/2020, 17:22) Like (10) Dislike (0) Reply
    Tsiwan Ambassador just donate 40 thousand face mask, Nurses and Doctors full gears for protection... Free of cost.. Wow....They are going to open up but everyone will have to wear a protective mass for 2 weeks, thats the new law.. ..Also to add Amory Bakery in St kitts will be giving free bread and buns to the whole of st kitts on Wednesdsy and starting wednesday every medical worker will be getting free bread.. wow.. Thats businesses with heart stepping up... Wow.
    • Nyam (07/04/2020, 19:48) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Bread is something and a good gesture. Not conducive to good health though and especially for diabetics and those with a propensity for diabetis which is a large portion of us Caribbean folks.
  • hummmm (06/04/2020, 17:51) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    And what about the schools who are demanding there money as well
  • Already (06/04/2020, 20:02) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    Some tenants have refused to pay April rent saying that they did not work for a week in March and acting as if it is their right not to pay. The things Landlords have to put up with.

  • wow (06/04/2020, 20:28) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    I ready to go live in a tent
  • Amazing (06/04/2020, 20:39) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    The lock down happened at the end of March. Rents due on the 1st. Why are persons unable to pay their rent on April 1st or at least last Friday when we were free to get some banking done? Most jobs shut down as a result of the lock down so talk to your landlord about any challenges you may have to pay rent for May.
  • landlord & tenant (06/04/2020, 20:55) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    I'm a landlord and a tenant, so I think I have a good idea of the situation. First of all when bank defer payments it does not mean that they are not expecting the monies owed to them its just a deferment and after Irma that deferment came with extra interest. There is no problem with a landlord deferring rent but it sounds like SOME tenants are expecting not to pay rent at all because the banks deferred a payment that will still be owed. Some tenants will not have their rent monies on time , so if the landlords out there can be patient and wait a month or so then they should, but those monies will still be owed by the Tenant just like how the monies is still owed to the banks. Not many people are able to save up for a raining day as several individuals in the BVI live pay check to pay check and that's just the way things are here as cost of living is high and the minimum wage does not suffice for the current rate of living. So please , landlords: give your tenants time to pay their rent and don't harass them and tenants who can pay their rents please do so when the curfew is over and the banks re-open. Banks: I hope you're not charging interest on these deferments like after Irma as a lot of us were very surprised!
  • 2 words (06/04/2020, 22:01) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Deferred, waved. Please ask the banks to define. Then instruct its customers of their intentions on all mortgages.

    Customers were taken for a jolly ride in hurricanes despite previous premier announcement in 2017

    Don't let this happen again it must get better not bitter.
  • @## (06/04/2020, 23:37) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    @landlord/tenant
    Thanks for saying all of that!!!
    Most likely, the banks will be doing the same thing as afternoon the hurricane...I am sure that the landlords will be willing to assist..However, I want tenants to understand that when landlords sign up for this deal with these banks, the Banks are the ones who will gain. The interest on these loans/mortgages are still being calculated daily and must be paid in full before any money can be applied to the outstanding principal balance. Also, the months that landlords are unable to pay because tenants could not pay the rent will result in it being pushed back, and the maturity date changed to 3 -6 months later. So the landlords are the ones who will be feeling the pain in all this by paying additional interest to the banks and having the maturity date on their mortgage changed to assist the tenants. And the tenants rent remains the same.
    • Me (07/04/2020, 20:08) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      One week out of the month they did not work and want to not pay rent for the month. No sirreee..zzi am not in that with them. By hook or crook I will be getting my rent. If there is a decision with the banks and it involves fees later on or additional interest on my mortgage payment, I am passing that cost to the tenant.
      These people go Chuch sing praise and pay tithe . They belong to this and that organization for their country and pay dues b want me to be their charitable chupid Tolian. No way Jose..So far I have no problem...The rules are set sealed and signed. Business is just that. A roof over your head is nothing to be playing games about and neither is my investment for the future.



      ut want
      • Lets Be Real Man (08/04/2020, 22:02) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
        @Me i understand your sentiment but be real, As there are people who deffinetley will be taking advantage of this sittuation, there are also people who dont have a choice but not to pay because they work in the tourism sector and that was the first area to go in all of this. No one is asking you to be an @$$ to ride but a little compassion wouldnt hurt, Are you saying your willing to throw a single mother and her child out on the street because her paycheck to paycheck job closed way before this entire ordeal started, a mother who has never been late on rent or short a dime and the one time not only her but the whole world is in a crisis you kick her out becuase she asks for a month or 2 to get things sorted or gives you half the rent because that is all that is left. then let me ask this... when you kick her out do you think that puts anymore money in your pocket, do you think you will get that appartment rented right away when the entire BVI is in distress. Think again. You will without a doubt dig a bigger whole than if you gave that person a chance,,,,,,,,, and this goes to all landlords. I understand you all have it hard with the banks as they dont want to hear bout tenant they only want their money. but lets say good forbid this delema we are in lasts another 4 to five months and none of your tenants can pay. Are you gonna evict them all. lets be real. As the Premier said this is an unprecedented issue that we are dealing with which means some of us need to have a heart,,,,, and to all the tenants that think... yea i just not gonna pay or take advantage of this, i beg before you do think of the consequences of your actions and the other people you will put in serious problems... I pray you all do the right thing and have a heart, for we all know God never sleeps and is always watching, and for those of you who dont fear him, well he who has the last laugh laughs the best, Remember that.
  • Want’s to know (07/04/2020, 20:46) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    The Banks are not really giving us a break, you have to pay interest along with having those three months added onto your Mortgage. I want to ask the Premier who are paying those fees
  • Lawenda (07/04/2020, 21:06) Like (11) Dislike (0) Reply
    I paid my rent for April . Even though some can't pay their rent at least pay something and work it out with your landlord to pay the rest. Half is better than none at all. Some making excuses even though they weren't laid off. Pay your rent the landlord has bills to pay just like you. I know for a fact their are good and bad landlords but you have to work with them.
  • These banks (11/04/2020, 01:51) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    While government wants landlords to have leniency on tentants they need to but pressure on the banks the same landlords have to meet monthly because at the end of the day the banks ain’t care about what’s going on don’t care about no hurricane no corona virus they waNt there moneys regardless and they calling u thru all this for there mortgage payment Bout I notice since Irma like the government in the bvi scared of the banks here point look at the USA prime rate look at what we paying here hmmm point 2 u ask for a loan in the bvi it’s months before you can get a answer in the USA couple days in some instances couple hours don’t care the amount
  • musa (12/04/2020, 00:29) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    People will need help


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