Do we have recourse? What type of attorney?

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Do we have recourse? What type of attorney?

Hello We have been renting a home since Sept. 2015 lease
contract and option to purchase the home within a period of
time. That time has expired. HOWEVER, we have made many
improvements to the home, with the approval of the owner,
and feel we should be compensated for those improvements
should they decide to put the house on the market. I was
wondering if we could put a lien on the property and/or sue
the owners for unjust enrichment? Or is there another
option? Not sure if we need a real estate attorney or, since
we are basically renters/contractors, a small business
lawyer. Thank you.

Asked on April 29, 2019 under Real Estate Law, North Carolina

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 4 years ago | Contributor

No, you have no right to sue the owner, put a lien on the home, or otherwise seek compensation. Even if the owner approved the renovations, you were not obligated to do them--you voluntarily spent your money and/or time doing this. You did it for your own reasons and benefit. The law does not let you use your voluntary actions to force others to pay you. In the future, do not make improvements to anything you do not in fact own.


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