A solid lease agreement is the foundation of a good relationship between a commercial tenant and the landlord. When there is confusion over the terms or important things are left out, it can result in disputes that may require legal action to resolve. It is important for commercial tenants to know how to protect their rights in a lease and what to do if there is a problem.
There are steps California tenants can take that will help them reduce the chance of involvement in a lease dispute. These are practical ways to avoid problems, and they may include the following:
- Know the terms of the lease agreement thoroughly.
- Know the responsibilities as the tenant, as well as understand the responsibilities of the landlord.
- Keep track of all correspondence with the landlord and document any issues that arise.
- Reach out to the other party as soon as possible when there is a problem, determining if there is a reasonable and easy solution available.
It may be possible to resolve disputes out of court. These types of disputes can be costly and stressful, and it’s prudent to seek the simplest and least expensive solution possible. In the event the landlord is not responsive, combative or continues to violate the terms of the lease, the commercial tenant has the right to take legal action.
When facing a real estate dispute of any kind, it is helpful to work with an experienced California attorney. A legal ally can help tenants protect their rights and seek a positive resolution to their concerns. He or she can assist with out-of-court negotiations or representation if it’s necessary to go to court.
