Finding a tenant to take on a residential lease can be a stressful process for a landlord. After doing their due diligence to ensure that their new tenant will be able to meet the conditions of their agreement, a landlord may discover problems with the party or parties living in their rented space. This post addresses some of the reasons that a New York landlord may elect to break a lease agreement with a tenant. This list is not comprehensive and readers should not rely on it as legal advice. All questions about lease agreements can be directed to knowledgeable and trusted landlord-tenant law attorneys.
Failure of the tenant to pay rent as stipulated
One of the main reasons that landlords elect to evict their tenants is nonpayment of rent. Rent is the money that a tenant pays to their landlord for the use of the agreed upon space. Without rent payments, a landlord may not be able to meet their own financial obligations and may struggle to keep themselves financially afloat. The agreement that a landlord and tenant execute regarding the rental of a space will often outline what will happen if a tenant does not stay current on their rent payments.
Failure of the tenant to abide by applicable laws
A tenant that breaks the law is a tenant that a landlord may want to remove from their property. When a landlord learns that their tenant is engaged in criminal or wrongful activity, they can work with their attorney and proper authorities to address the matter. Violations of laws, regulations, and other local, state, and federal rules may warrant action for termination from a landlord.
Failure of the tenant to follow the lease agreement
A lease agreement between a tenant and a landlord contains more than provision on rent. It should include the length of the lease, information about subletting, pets, and other important details. When a tenant violates the non-rental terms of a lease, they may expose themselves to termination actions from their landlord.
Terminating a lease agreement can be difficult. Many landlords would rather not evict their tenants but many must in order to protect their own rights and interests. Landlord-tenant law attorneys can help them manage their legal needs.
