AboutMike Fortunato Expertise Can answer questions on all aspects of commercial real estate management, including lease administration, eviction issues, financial reporting and budgeting, asset valuation/enhancement, marketing & leasing, and site maintenance and repairs. 20+ years of real estate management.
Experience 20+ years in commercial management. Current own and operate property management company in southern California.
Question I just signed the commercial lease for the retail store, and my landlord wants to fix the termite damage wood outside wall of the building and replace scratch glass front window. He told me to pay for it because the lease says I am responsible for repair and damage. These termite damage was before I moved in and also the glass. So who is responsible for paying?
Answer You'll need to check your lease to determine who is responsible, but under normal circumstances, the landlord would be required to pay for any pre-existing damages prior to the start of your tenancy. Most likely, if those damages were in place prior to your move-in, the landlord should be responsible, unless there's some provision in the lease for you to accept the premises in as-is condition and you were cut a special deal if you make the repairs yourself.
