As a business owner, understanding your maintenance and repair responsibilities is crucial to avoiding disputes and ensuring a smooth operation. In New York, commercial real estate leases typically outline the maintenance and repair obligations of both the property owner and the renter. Knowing who is responsible for what can save you time, money and headaches in the long run.
Who’s responsible for what?
Your lease agreement is the guiding document for maintenance and repairs. It specifies which party is responsible for maintaining and repairing which portions of the property. Typically, the property owner is responsible for the exteriors and common areas, while the renter handles the interiors. However, reviewing your lease agreement to understand your specific responsibilities is essential.
You should also be aware of any common maintenance fees associated with the property. These fees can apply to all tenants and cover the costs of maintaining common areas such as lobbies, hallways, and parking garages. The lease agreement should outline how these fees are computed and who pays them. If you’re subleasing the property, negotiate a fair division of these fees to avoid surprises.
Avoiding disputes and hidden costs
Disputes can arise when maintenance and repair responsibilities are unclear or when hidden costs are not disclosed. To avoid these issues, it is essential to review your lease agreement and negotiate any ambiguous terms. For instance, if the property has vacancies, landlords may try to pass on the common area maintenance costs to the remaining tenants. Be sure to negotiate this out of your lease, as it only favors the landlord.
Seeking legal help
If you are experiencing disputes with your landlord, seeking legal help may be advisable. A qualified attorney can review your lease agreement, guide your responsibilities and help you navigate any disputes that may arise. Don’t wait until a problem becomes a crisis—seek legal help early to protect your business interests.
Understanding your maintenance and repair responsibilities is crucial to avoiding disputes and ensuring a smooth operation. By carefully reviewing your lease agreement, negotiating unclear terms and seeking legal help when needed, you can protect your business interests and avoid costly disputes.