What Commercial Landlords Need to Know About Unpaid Rent Claims and Eviction in NYC

Commercial landlords have the right to enforce their rental agreements when a tenant breaks their lease. Eviction is the most frequently utilized method of enforcing the rental agreement. 

Paying their rent is the most important responsibility that a commercial tenant has under a lease agreement. When a tenant fails to pay their rent, a dispute is sure to follow. 

When a tenant fails to pay rent and a commercial landlord must consider legal avenues in response, it’s best to seek the help of experienced NYC eviction lawyers.

Landlords must be familiar with the terms of the lease agreement.

A commercial lease is a contract between a property owner and the party leasing the property. Many times, the landlord is also the property owner. Ideally, a lease will set forth all the obligations the parties have to one another. Typical obligations include the property owner’s duty to fix broken items and the lessor’s duty to pay rent in full and on time. 

Rent is typically paid monthly by the lessor. A landlord must ensure that the lessor is aware of the specific rent-related responsibilities set out in the lease agreement. 

When a lessor fails to pay rent, the terms of the lease govern what the landlord may and should do in response. Late fees, for example, may be assessed by a landlord if the rent is paid by a certain date. In some NYC commercial lease agreements, a lessor is obligated to pay attorney’s fees in anticipation of a potential eviction when rent is not paid on time. 

Eviction May be Permitted in Unpaid Rent Cases in NYC 

A lessor’s failure to pay rent is a major issue that may require legal action. A landlord relies on rent to perform their duties to their lessors and, possibly, the owner of the properties they manage. 

An eviction is the method employed by many landlords in response to a lessee’s failure to pay rent. Landlords must comply with New York State law, NYC statutes, and the terms of the lease agreement when initiating the eviction process. The failure to follow the law can result in consequences for the landlord and property owner. 

While a landlord may be within their rights to evict a tenant who does not pay rent, there may be good reasons not to do so immediately. 

Evicting a lessor places a landlord in the position of having to locate a suitable replacement client. Depending on the economic environment, the type of space available for rent, and the time of year, it may be difficult to quickly locate a replacement lessor. 

Additionally, a commercial tenant with a lengthy history of paying rent on time may have a circumstance beyond their control that explains why rent was not paid on time. Inquiring with the lessor about what occurred may be more prudent than immediately beginning eviction proceedings. 

Contact our NYC eviction lawyers for more information on commercial evictions.

The Knox Law Group has served commercial landlords in NYC eviction matters. Contact our office today for a consultation focusing on your specific circumstances and questions.