Results 1 to 2 of 2
  1. #1
    Join Date
    Aug 2012
    Posts
    1

    Default Breaking a Lease Due to a Family Emergency

    My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Pennsylvania

    Stupidly, I signed a two year lease without an opt-out clause and two weeks before I moved in a family emergency changed my situation and I have to move across country. I understand that a lease is a contract but was surprised the LL wasn't willing to take 2-3 months rent to rip up the lease.

    The LL has said that they will try to rent the property and we'll settle up from there. How do I ensure that the LL is reasonably trying to re-lease the place? They're not exactly incentivized to try very hard. Also, the LL has suggested it is fine if someone wants a one year lease. Am I still on the hook for the next year, even if there's a new lease drawn up? Lastly, what if they can't find a tenant at the listing price? How does that scenario typically play out?

    Thank you!

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Location
    Behind a Desk
    Posts
    98,846

    Default Re: Breaking a Lease Due to a Family Emergency

    If you are sued for rent, you can attempt to argue that the landlord did not make a reasonable effort to find a replacement tenant. You have no right or ability to police his efforts before then.

    If the landlord has said that he will release you from any further obligation if he finds somebody to rent for a year, then that's what he's agreed to do. If he has not said that, you can ask him to clarify what he means.

    If the landlord makes a reasonable effort but the premises rent for less than you agreed to pay, you owe the difference.

    1. Sponsored Links
       

Similar Threads

  1. Breaking a Lease: Lease Agreement Signed with Previous Management, Breaking Lease Consequences
    By briadams in forum Landlord-Tenant Law
    Replies: 1
    Last Post: 04-23-2012, 11:10 AM
  2. Unemployment Benefits: Can You Get Unemployment if You Quit Due to a Family Emergency
    By biggi498 in forum Employment and Labor
    Replies: 1
    Last Post: 05-12-2011, 08:43 PM
  3. Rental Agreements: Breaking Lease Renewal Before Lease Term Begins
    By rindsight in forum Landlord-Tenant Law
    Replies: 3
    Last Post: 05-12-2011, 01:46 PM
  4. Family Emergency Deemed an Unexcused Absence
    By dlgrai in forum Employment and Labor
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 10-22-2008, 08:02 AM
  5. Rental Agreements: Breaking A Lease And Lease Option Amid Possible Foreclosure
    By bryankb30 in forum Landlord-Tenant Law
    Replies: 1
    Last Post: 06-05-2008, 08:02 AM
 
 
Sponsored Links

Legal Help, Information and Resources