First let me say that I’m sorry to hear about the layoff. I just had a tenant of mine get laid off 2 months ago… although I was willing to work with her situation, not all landlords are as cool as me. She did actually find a better career so it worked out for her.
As for your problem with your landlord. This can be a difficult thing, and if not dealt with properly it can hurt your credit report. Many landlord’s are in-sensitive about your life crisis or job situation. They only care about getting your rent on-time. I suggest creating a paper trail, this can be done by using certified letters, email, or any other communication that can be verifiable. If you can afford it, I would suggest getting professional help. The RPA offers a mediation program to all renters for a small processing fee of $35. If you file a complaint with them, they will be able to create a case and negotiate with the landlord to find a legally documented solution. This will protect you from your landlord turning around and reporting you to credit bureaus. This is a tough one, but you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do– and that is to look out for “Numero Uno!” If you wan to do the RPA Mediation you can click on the “File Complaint” link at the top of this page.
Hope that helps, good luck to you!

Watch out your landlord can also charge you for owed rent through the end of your rent contract…

When a renter / tenant is laid off our apartment community is a little more flexible than usual. We are willing to work with their situation, but still we try to make it a win win scenario. We will ask the tenant to help us actively seek a new tenant. We have them list an ad on Craigslist.com and show the unit to people. Once he finds someone that is interested we do the application process and put the new tenant in the rental. This process has worked good for our properties, and you might consider approaching your property manager about something like this.
You shouldn’t expect your landlord to carry the full burden; its not his fault you are unemployed.
Best wishes!

I was just fired. I went to the unemployment agency and was told it can take up to 3 months for benefits>?
I asked to be moved into this new bigger apt. b/c my last apt. was flooded by by an upstairs neighbor. Now I simply cannot afford this apt. it is $1,400.00 a month. Nice 2 bedroom.
I remember when this happen to me in Arizona, my girlfriend at the time and I went to the unemployment agency and they paid all of our bills for one month. ONE WHOLE MONTH! I was wondering if anyone knew anything about that in Virginia?