If they had paid do the tenants still owe? If they do does the land lord get double the money if they pay or do they owe it back? As a tenant what would stop me

If they had paid do the tenants still owe? If they do does the land lord get double the money if they pay or do they owe it back? As a tenant what would stop me from not paying knowing my landlord still gets the check or work out a deal with them that I “don’t pay” and slide them 50% my rent in cash. It’s a tricky thing to tackle!