Commercial leases outline the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. However, even with a written agreement, disputes can still happen. These disagreements can interrupt business operations and sometimes lead to legal action.
Here are some of the most common issues in commercial lease arrangements.
Rent and payment issues
Rent disputes are among the most common problems in commercial leasing. A tenant may fall behind on rent or disagree with late fees or scheduled rent increases. Sometimes, disputes come up when a tenant believes charges like property taxes or insurance premiums were miscalculated or unfairly passed on.
Repair and maintenance responsibilities
A common source of confusion is who is responsible for repairs. Leases may not clearly define whether the landlord or the tenant must handle certain types of maintenance. This can lead to disputes over issues like roof leaks, HVAC repairs or plumbing problems, especially when major repairs are involved.
Disagreements over lease terms
Commercial leases often include terms about subleasing, permitted use of the property and lease renewals. Disputes can occur if a tenant tries to sublet without approval or uses the space in a way the landlord did not expect. Conflicts also arise when a lease ends and the tenant stays without a new agreement in place.
Other issues include disagreements over common area maintenance charges, zoning compliance and early termination. If a tenant exits early or violates a break clause, the landlord may seek damages. Disputes like these can become more complex if not addressed quickly.
If you are in the middle of a lease dispute, it’s important to resolve it efficiently. Seeking legal guidance will help you to do this.